Are you struggling with work-related back pain? Whether you spend your days behind a desk or out in the field, back pain is a serious risk for workers. In addition to pain, both office employees and laborers often experience numbness, muscle spasms and mobility issues. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the link between work and back pain. We’ll also review the importance of early intervention and how the back pain specialists at MAPS can help you achieve relief.
What Causes Back Pain for Office Workers and Laborers?
Although office work and physical labor are two very different jobs, they have something in common: both these roles can lead to debilitating back pain. Here are just a few of the problems workers face:
Office workers:
- Poor ergonomics: Did you know that your workplace setup has a major impact on your comfort? For example, an improperly adjusted chair can force employees to slouch, while an uncushioned seat strains the back.
- Prolonged sitting: Sitting down all day may decompress the spinal discs and weaken core muscles.
- Repetitive strain: Repeated office movements, such as typing and navigating a mouse, can cause tension in the shoulders and upper back.
Laborers:
- Heavy lifting: Physical laborers often have to lift heavy weights, which can strain the back (especially if you’re not using proper lifting techniques).
- Frequent bending: Many movements associated with physical labor, such as bending and twisting, put excessive strain on the spine.
- Acute injuries: Laborers are more likely to sustain acute injuries that cause back pain, such as sprains or falls.
When Should You See a Specialist for Chronic Back Pain?
When it comes to back pain, many workers try to push through and hope it resolves on its own. Unfortunately, this usually only worsens the pain and makes it more difficult to get your job done. Not to mention, ignoring pain can cause long-term damage and reduced mobility. Thus, it’s important to consult a back pain specialist as early as possible. Here are some key signs that you need professional intervention:
- Your back pain lasts more than a few weeks
- Your back pain worsens with activity
- You have other symptoms, such as numbness, tingling or weakness
The sooner you consult a specialist, the sooner you can enjoy back pain relief.
How Can a Specialist Diagnose Work-Related Back Pain?
If back pain is interfering with your job, a specialist can help. A typical consultation involves the following:
- Evaluation: To better understand your pain, the specialist will typically ask about your symptoms, job responsibilities, work environment and any previous injuries.
- Physical examination: In addition to asking questions, they may perform a physical examination to better assess your pain, posture and muscle strength.
- Diagnostic testing: If necessary, the specialist may suggest ordering X-rays, MRIs or CT scans.
Using a highly personalized diagnosis procedure, back pain specialists help identify the root issue and devise an effective treatment plan.
What Are the Most Effective Treatments for Back Pain at Work?
After receiving a diagnosis, the next step is actually treating your back pain. Although treatments can vary depending on the source and extent of your pain, they often involve a combination of the following:
- Ergonomic adjustments: Ergonomic workplace adjustments, such as using comfortable and aligned furniture, can help relieve day-to-day back pain (especially for office workers).
- Proper training: Laborers should receive proper training on how to handle manual tasks. This may include stretching, lifting with the legs and using safety equipment.
- Physical therapy: Both office workers and laborers alike can find relief through physical therapy. Put simply, physical therapy involves using tailored exercises and techniques to reduce pain, improve mobility and boost joint strength.
- Medical intervention: In addition to physical therapy and lifestyle changes, many people benefit from medical intervention. For the best results, you should work with a reputable team, such as the experts at MAPS.
How Can MAPS Centers for Pain Control Help Relieve Your Back Pain
Do you need treatment for chronic, work-related back pain? At MAPS Centers for Pain Control, we’re dedicated to helping workers find back pain relief. We offer a slew of effective, non-surgical treatments, including the following:
- Injection-based therapy: These treatments involve injecting medication directly into the pain area, resulting in rapid relief.
- Minimally invasive procedures: Our interventional pain procedures include everything from radiofrequency ablation to disc decompression.
- Cryoneurolysis: This innovative solution harnesses the power of freezing cold temperatures to disable nerves that transmit pain signals.
We’ll start by carefully evaluating your back pain to better understand your unique symptoms and conditions. Then, we’ll create a treatment plan that’s personalized to your needs. With our compassionate, patient-centered approach, you can rest assured that you’re receiving a safe, effective and high-quality treatment plan. Schedule your consultation today!