1. What Is a Work-Related Back Injury?

A work-related back injury is any condition affecting your neck or back that occurs because of your job duties or workplace environment. These injuries are among the most common reasons employees file workers’ compensation claims in Massachusetts.

A back injury at work can happen suddenly—for example, when lifting a heavy object or slipping on a wet floor—or develop gradually from repetitive strain, overuse, or poor posture. Under Massachusetts workers’ compensation law, employees who suffer a back injury on the job are eligible for medical treatment, lost wage benefits, and rehabilitation support.

2. Causes

Back injuries at work can occur in many occupations, from office workers to construction professionals. Common causes include:

• Lifting heavy objects or awkward twisting motions that strain the lower back

• Repetitive bending or reaching throughout the workday

• Slips, trips, or falls that cause sudden back trauma

• Vehicle or machinery accidents that jar or compress the spine

• Overexertion or poor body mechanics during manual labor

All of these can lead to work-related back pain that qualifies for workers’ compensation benefits in Massachusetts if caused or aggravated by your job duties.

3. Symptoms

Symptoms of a work-related back injury can vary depending on the area of the back that is affected. Common symptoms include:

• Persistent low back pain or stiffness

• Neck pain or tension after repetitive movements

• Shooting or radiating pain into the arms or legs (such as sciatica)

• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the limbs

• Difficulty lifting, sitting, standing, or walking for long periods

• Muscle spasms or loss of range of motion

If you experience these symptoms after a workplace incident or repetitive activity, you should seek care from a doctor familiar with back injuries and workers’ compensation in Massachusetts.

4. Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis is essential for both proper treatment and your workers’ compensation claim. During your evaluation, your provider will:

• Take a detailed history of your job duties and mechanism of injury

• Perform a physical and neurological examination focused on your back and neck

• Order imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to assess disc injuries, nerve compression, or muscle strain

• Provide the documentation required to support your Massachusetts workers’ compensation claim

A precise diagnosis ensures your injury is properly recognized as work-related back pain and that you receive the care and benefits you deserve.

5. Treatments

Treatment for a work-related back injury aims to relieve pain, restore function, and allow a safe return to work. Depending on the severity, options may include:

• Rest, activity modification, and use of ergonomic supports

• Physical therapy to improve posture, strengthen core muscles, and increase flexibility

• Medications or muscle relaxants for short-term relief

• Epidural steroid injections or nerve blocks for radiating back pain

• Minimally invasive spine surgery if conservative treatments do not provide relief

Under Massachusetts workers’ compensation, medical treatment for approved back injuries is typically covered in full, allowing you to focus on recovery without financial burden. Early, coordinated care helps prevent chronic back pain and supports a faster return to work.

If you’ve suffered a work injury in Massachusetts, our team can help coordinate your care, assist with documentation, and provide specialized evaluation for workers’ compensation claims. Prompt treatment not only improves recovery—it also helps protect your legal rights under Massachusetts workers’ compensation law.