5 Most Common Work-related Injuries That Require Chiropractic Treatment

Chiropractic Care for Workplace Injuries: Relieve Pain and Speed Up Recovery

Work-related injuries can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and dysfunction, affecting an individual’s ability to perform their job and engage in daily activities. Chiropractic treatment can be highly effective for a variety of these injuries, promoting healing, pain relief, and restoration of function. 

Here are some of the most common work-related injuries that may require chiropractic care:

1. Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain is one of the most prevalent work-related injuries, especially in jobs that involve heavy lifting, prolonged sitting, or standing. Chiropractic adjustments can help alleviate lower back pain by improving spinal alignment and reducing pressure on the nerves.

Lower back pain is a prevalent issue that affects people of various ages and lifestyles. The causes of lower back pain can be diverse, ranging from acute injuries to chronic conditions. 

Here are some of the most common causes of lower back pain:

1. Muscle or Ligament Strain

Lifting heavy things over and over again, or moving in a sudden and strange way, can make the muscles in your back and the stretchy bands that hold your spine together really sore. Poor physical condition can leave your back more prone to acute strains, which can cause persistent pain.

2. Bulging or Ruptured Disks

Disks are like soft pillows that sit between the bones in your spine to keep them from rubbing against each other. Sometimes, the squishy part inside a disk can stick out or even break, which might push on one of the wires (nerves) in your back and cause pain.

3. Arthritis

Osteoarthritis can affect the lower back. Sometimes, arthritis in the spine can make the space around the spinal cord get smaller, a situation known as spinal stenosis.

4. Skeletal Irregularities

A condition in which your spine curves to the side (scoliosis) also can lead to back pain, but generally only if the scoliosis is severe.

5. Osteoporosis

If your bones get weak and crumbly, the bones in your spine can get squished and break in places.

6. Poor Posture

Chronic poor posture, whether it’s sitting slouched in front of a computer or bending improperly while lifting, can cause or exacerbate lower back pain by placing undue pressure on the spine.

7. Sedentary Lifestyle

Lack of regular exercise leads to weak back muscles, which can contribute to lower back pain. A sedentary lifestyle may also increase the risk of weight gain, which puts additional stress on the back.

8. Sciatica

Sciatica is a condition that affects the sciatic nerve, which extends from the lower back down the back of the legs. If a herniated disk or bone spur compresses part of the nerve, it can cause sharp, shooting pain through the buttock and down the leg.

Understanding the underlying cause of lower back pain is crucial for effective treatment. In many cases, a combination of lifestyle changes, physical therapy, chiropractic care, and, in severe cases, medical treatment can help alleviate the pain and address the root cause.

2. Neck Pain

Neck pain often results from poor posture, especially in office workers who spend long hours in front of a computer. Chiropractic care can address the underlying causes of neck pain, providing relief and preventing future discomfort.

Neck pain is a widespread complaint that can be attributed to a variety of causes. 

Some of the most common reasons for neck pain include:

1. Muscle Strain and Tension

Spending too much time bent over your computer or phone can lead to pulled muscles. Even small actions, like reading in bed or clenching your teeth, can make your neck muscles sore.

2. Poor Posture

Chronic poor posture, particularly related to desk jobs or looking down at your phone frequently (sometimes called “text neck”), can lead to neck pain by placing extra strain on the muscles and ligaments.

3. Whiplash

This is a type of neck injury caused by a sudden jerking motion of the head, commonly resulting from a car accident. It stretches the neck’s muscles and ligaments more than they’re used to moving.

4. Herniated Discs or Bone Spurs

The vertebrae in the neck can develop herniated discs or bone spurs, which can press on the nerves branching out from the spinal cord, resulting in neck pain.

5. Osteoarthritis

A common joint disorder, osteoarthritis causes the cartilage between your vertebrae to deteriorate. Then, your body creates bony growths called bone spurs that can disrupt how your joints move and lead to discomfort.

6. Degenerative Disc Disease

As you age, the cervical discs can degenerate. This condition can reduce the space between the vertebrae and add stress to your neck, leading to pain.

7. Spinal Stenosis

This condition involves the narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck, which can compress the spinal cord and nerves, leading to neck pain and sometimes arm pain.

Proper diagnosis and understanding of the underlying cause of neck pain are crucial for effective treatment. Treatments can range from physical therapy, chiropractic care, and lifestyle changes to medical interventions for more serious conditions.

3. Herniated Discs

Lifting heavy objects improperly can lead to herniated discs, where the disc material presses on nearby nerves. Chiropractic treatment can help manage the pain and encourage the disc to move back into its proper position.

Herniated discs, also known as slipped or ruptured discs, occur when the soft inner gel of the disc extends out through a tear in the tougher exterior. This condition can lead to pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg, depending on the disc’s location. 

Here are some of the most common causes of herniated discs:

1. Age-related Wear and Tear (Disc Degeneration)

As you age, your spinal discs lose some of their water content, making them less flexible and more prone to tearing or rupturing with even a minor strain or twist.

2. Physical Strain and Overexertion

Lifting heavy objects improperly, by using your back instead of your legs, can cause excessive pressure on the lower back, leading to disc herniation.

3. Sudden Twists or Turns

Making a sudden, awkward movement can strain the spine and cause a disc to herniate. This is often seen in sports-related injuries.

4. Traumatic Injury

Car accidents falls, and other traumatic events can cause severe back injuries, including herniated discs, due to the sudden and forceful impact.

5. Repetitive Activities

Engaging in repetitive activities that strain the spine, such as certain types of work or sports, can gradually lead to disc wear and herniation over time.

6. Poor Posture

Chronic poor posture, especially when sitting for extended periods, can put undue pressure on the spine and discs, contributing to the risk of herniation.

7. Obesity

Excess body weight increases the burden on the discs in the lower back, raising the risk of herniation due to the added pressure on the spine.

Understanding the causes and risk factors of herniated discs is crucial for prevention and management. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, practicing proper body mechanics, and staying active can help reduce the risk of developing this painful condition. If you suspect you have a herniated disc, seeking prompt medical evaluation and treatment is important to prevent further damage and alleviate symptoms.

4. Shoulder Pain and Injuries

Shoulder injuries, including rotator cuff injuries, can result from overuse or improper lifting techniques. Chiropractors can use various techniques to restore shoulder mobility and reduce pain.

Shoulder pain and injuries are common issues that can arise from a variety of causes, ranging from acute injuries to chronic conditions. 

Here are some of the most common causes of shoulder pain and injuries:

1. Rotator Cuff Tendinitis

This condition involves inflammation of the tendons in the rotator cuff, which can lead to pain and limited movement. It’s often caused by repetitive overhead activities or overuse.

2. Rotator Cuff Tears

Tears in the rotator cuff tendons can occur from sudden injuries or gradual wear and tear over time. Symptoms include pain, especially at night, and weakness in the arm.

3. Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

A frozen shoulder is characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, often developing slowly and worsening over time. It may occur after prolonged immobility or due to an underlying disease like diabetes.

4. Bursitis

Bursitis involves inflammation of the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction between bones and soft tissues. Shoulder bursitis can result from overuse, injury, or infections.

5. Shoulder Impingement

Shoulder impingement occurs when the shoulder blade (acromion) puts pressure on the underlying soft tissues when the arm is lifted. It can lead to tendinitis and bursitis.

6. Dislocation or Subluxation

A dislocation happens when the upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder socket, often due to trauma. Subluxation is a partial dislocation that can cause pain and instability.

7. Labral Tear

The labrum is a circle of cartilage that wraps around the socket of the shoulder. Tears can result from acute trauma or repetitive shoulder motions, causing pain and a catching sensation.

8. Arthritis

Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis are types of arthritis that can affect the shoulder, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

Identifying the underlying cause of shoulder pain is crucial for selecting the appropriate treatment. Treatments may include rest, physical therapy, medications, injections, or surgery, depending on the severity and cause of the injury. Consulting with a healthcare professional is important for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

5. Knee Pain

Knee pain can arise from prolonged standing or repetitive motion, leading to conditions like patellofemoral syndrome. Chiropractic techniques can help align the knee and relieve pain.

Knee pain is a common issue experienced by individuals across all age groups. It can arise from a variety of causes, ranging from acute injuries to chronic conditions. 

Here are some of the most common causes of knee pain:

1. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects the cartilage in the knee joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It’s common in older adults.

2. Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury

The ACL is a crucial ligament that aids in keeping the knee joint steady. ACL injuries often happen in sports requiring quick stops or sharp turns.

3. Meniscus Tears

The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion for the knee joint. Tears can occur from twisting the knee while bearing weight, often during sports or through accidental injuries.

4. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Also known as “runner’s knee,” this condition is characterized by pain around the kneecap. It’s common in athletes and those active in sports involving running and jumping.

5. Bursitis

Knee bursitis occurs when the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee joint, become inflamed, often due to overuse or repeated pressure.

6. Tendonitis

Tendonitis in the knee, such as patellar tendonitis, involves inflammation of the tendons around the knee, commonly due to overuse in jumping sports.

Addressing knee pain effectively often requires a comprehensive approach that may include rest, physical therapy, medications, and possibly surgery, depending on the cause. It’s crucial to consult with healthcare professionals for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan tailored to the specific cause and severity of the knee pain.

Work-Related Injury Treatment at the Chiropractic Center of Erie and Longmont Colorado

At Chiropractic Care in Erie & Longmont, our mission goes beyond merely treating symptoms. With over 29 years of dedicated service to the Front Range community, we’re committed to delivering a patient-centric approach that addresses the root causes of your work-related injuries. From Boulder to Longmont, Erie to Firestone, Frederick, and beyond, we’re here to provide the highest quality care, helping you return to work and daily activities with confidence and ease.

Embrace a pain-free work life and discover the difference that expert chiropractic care can make. Visit us at our Erie & Longmont locations, contact us at 303-828-3000, or visit our Facebook page, and let’s work together towards your healthiest, most vibrant self.

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Workplace Injuries Chiropractic Center of Erie Colorado

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