Overexertion at Work: How It Leads to the Most Common Workplace Injuries

When you think of workplace injuries, what comes to mind first? Chances are good it’s something like a slip-and-fall injury or an equipment-related injury. Those are both common issues, but the vast majority of workplace injuries come from one thing: overexertion.

Not only is overexertion the leading cause of workplace injuries across the country, but it can have lifelong impacts on your health and well-being. Understanding overexertion injuries and how they happen is the first step in protecting yourself and knowing your rights if you’re injured on the job.

What is overexertion?

Overexertion happens when your body is pushed beyond its limits, often through repetitive or strenuous tasks. It can also involve lifting loads that are too heavy or without the proper equipment or form. However, it’s not just about heavy lifting, although that’s a significant factor.

Overexertion includes any activity that strains your muscles, joints, or cardiovascular system, including:

• Repetitive motions: Typing, assembling products, or stocking shelves can strain muscles and tendons over time. This can lead to diseases like carpal tunnel and tendonitis.
• Lifting or carrying heavy objects: Improper techniques or too much weight can lead to sprains, tears, or herniated discs. In most cases, these injuries require time away from work. In serious situations, they may require surgery.
• Pulling, pushing, or throwing: These movements can strain muscles, particularly in the back and shoulders.
• Working in awkward positions: Bending, twisting, or stretching too far can put unnecessary pressure on your body.

Why overexertion is the most common work injury

Overexertion injuries are so common because they happen across nearly every industry. From office workers dealing with repetitive strain injuries to warehouse employees lifting heavy loads, no workplace is immune. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), overexertion injuries account for nearly 30% of all workplace injuries that lead to missed workdays.

Overexertion by the numbers

To truly understand the situation, we need to look at the numbers surrounding overexertion-related accidents in the workplace across the US. The figures below are from 2021-2022, which are the most recent years available at the time of this writing because the US BLS follows a biennial publication schedule:

• Over 1,000,000 workplace accidents occurred between 2021 and 2022 due to overexertion. That number doesn’t include days missed due to any other injury type.
• Transportation and material moving occupations had the highest incidence of overexertion-related injuries. However, no industry is immune to these injuries; even office workers can experience overexertion injuries.
• The total median time away from/missed work across all categories was 23 days. However, there’s more than just missed time at work to consider. Injuries usually require medical care, and missed time at work means reduced or no income for many workers.

Examples of overexertion injuries

Overexertion doesn’t just lead to sore muscles. It can cause serious injuries that require medical treatment and time off work, including:

• Back and neck injuries: These are among the most common, often resulting from improper lifting techniques or prolonged awkward positions. They can also occur if you lift a heavy load without wearing the right equipment, like a back brace. It is your employer’s responsibility to provide such equipment.
• Muscle strains and sprains: It’s common to think of sprains and strains as sudden injuries, but overstretching or tearing muscles and ligaments can happen quickly or build up over time.
• Carpal tunnel syndrome: Repeated motions, like typing or using tools, can compress nerves in your wrist. Repetitive motion injuries are common in most industries, from automotive workers to home remodeling.
• Tendonitis: This inflammation, often in the elbows or shoulders, results from repetitive movements. However, tendonitis can also affect other areas of the body, including the hands, hips, and feet.
• Herniated discs: Overexertion can rupture the soft tissue between your vertebrae, pressing on nerves and causing pain or numbness. Herniated discs often require surgery, not just time away from work.

How to prevent overexertion injuries

Preventing overexertion at work requires awareness, training, and listening to your body. Here are some practical steps to help you stay safe in the workplace:

1. Use proper lifting techniques: Bend your knees, keep your back straight, and lift with your legs, not your back.
2. Take breaks: Give your body a chance to recover, especially during repetitive tasks or physically demanding jobs.
3. Stretch regularly: Staying flexible can reduce the risk of muscle strain. Make time to stretch throughout your day.
4. Know your limits: Don’t hesitate to ask for help or use tools like dollies or lifts for heavy loads.
5. Stay hydrated: Dehydration can make muscles more prone to injury.

What to do if you’re injured at work

If you’ve experienced an overexertion injury, acting quickly is essential. Start by reporting your injury to your employer. This is the first step in filing a workers’ compensation claim. Then, seek medical attention to document your injury and start your recovery.

Workers’ compensation covers some of your medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation. However, navigating the claims process can be tricky, especially if your employer disputes your injury or claim. That’s where having a trusted attorney comes in.

How Silverman, McDonald & Friedman can help

At Silverman, McDonald, & Friedman, we understand how debilitating overexertion injuries can be. We’re here to help so you can focus on healing. Whether you’re dealing with a back injury, repetitive strain, or another overexertion-related issue, we’ll guide you through every step.

Don’t let an overexertion injury derail your life. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you get back on your feet.