The Most Common Workplace Injuries and Their Causes

Workplace injuries happen all the time, and can happen in any work environment, although the most frequent workplace injuries tend to occur in the construction and industrial trades. By their very nature, these trades see more injuries than most others, as the employees are sometimes working in dangerous conditions. Though it is less common, even if you work in an office you can suffer from a workplace injury or illness. Some of the most common workplace injuries include:

Tendonitis

This injury is the result of continuous repetitive movement and is the product of the tendons slowly becoming tighter until the fibers that make up tendons begin to tear.

Back Injuries

This is not only one of the most common work related injuries, but can also be one of the most serious. If your job requires a lot of repetitive motion or lifting, you are at risk for a back injury.

Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome

This injury is also known as complex regional pain syndrome. Reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome causes the tissue in a certain area to become swollen and painful to touch. This injury may develop as the result of another type of injury, such as a sprain or fall.

Stress Fractures

This is a common construction workplace injury that may occur when the muscles become overworked and unable to absorb shock. With the muscles unable to withstand the stress, the shock is transferred to the bone, causing small fractures.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

This is a condition where the nerves in the wrist become compressed, causing pain, weakness, and numbness. This injury is often caused by repetitive use of the hands and wrists, such as when typing on a keyboard.

Shoulder & Knee Injuries

The shoulders and knees are one of the most common areas of the body that may be injured at the workplace. Some frequent injuries to the shoulder include strains, rotator cuff tears, tendonitis, and dislocation. The kneecap and knee joints may also suffer from injury due to work. Though these are the most frequent work related injuries, there are others. If you feel that you may be suffering from a work related injury you can either speak with your doctor about the problem, or contact a workers’ compensation lawyer in Columbus for advice.