What is the Most Common Reason for Neck Injuries in People Working in Offices?

While communicating with office workers regarding workplace injuries, the most frequent complaint we hear from them includes neck pain. What is the most common reason for neck injuries in people working in offices? It is usually caused by bad posture and sitting for long periods of time, both of which can put stress on the neck muscles and result in chronic pain over time. At Schmidt & Salita Law Team, we’ve seen firsthand how these injuries impact our clients and their ability to work effectively.

Common Work-Related Neck Injuries

Workplace neck injuries can arise from common office work. Following are the most common types of neck injuries we come across and how they occur:

1. Muscle Strain: This is when the neck muscles are overstretched or held in a static position for too long. This may occur from a common employee activity of sitting at the desk for long periods without changing position. Small, repetitive movements of typing or answering the phone may cause muscle fatigue and strain. Maintaining a neutral posture and taking frequent breaks can both help to reduce strain on your muscles.
2. Cervical Disc Herniation: Occurs when a disc in the neck spine is forced out of its habitual place due to some impetus and places much pressure on a nerve, extreme pain in arms and hands along with numbness and weakness could emanate. In seal offices, this condition can develop due to prolonged poor posture, such as if a worker leans forward to view their computer screen for long periods at a time.
3. Tension Neck Syndrome: This is a common complaint present among office employees with tightness, discomfort, and pain in the neck. These are often due to prolonged sitting, stress, and repetitive work tasks. This is especially common in workers who do not have ergonomic chairs or a proper desk setup.
4. Whiplash: While often associated with car crashes, whiplash can occur in an office setting as well. For instance, it might happen if someone trips over cords or falls from a chair. The whiplash can push the neck out of its natural range of motion, injuring ligaments and muscles.

How to Prevent a Work Injury?

Preventing neck injuries starts with adopting healthy work habits and making ergonomic adjustments. Here are some practical tips:

• Adjust Your Workspace: Ensure that your computer monitor is at eye level to avoid tilting your head downward. Your chair should support your back, and your feet should rest flat on the floor. Consider using a headset if you spend a lot of time on the phone to avoid cradling the phone between your neck and shoulder.
• Take Regular Breaks: Sitting in the same position for long periods puts immense strain on your neck and back. Make it a habit to take short breaks every hour. Stand up, stretch, and walk around to relieve tension in your muscles.
• Practice Good Posture: Good posture is essential for preventing neck injuries. Sit with your back straight, shoulders relaxed, and both feet flat on the ground. Avoid slouching or leaning forward for prolonged periods.
• Use Ergonomic Equipment: Invest in ergonomic office furniture and accessories. A supportive chair, adjustable desk, and ergonomic keyboard can make a significant difference in reducing the risk of workplace injuries.

Professions with a High Risk of Neck Injuries

Some jobs are more likely to lead to neck injuries than others because of what the work entails, although any job can leave you vulnerable.

1. Office Workers: As we have discussed, sitting for long periods of time and performing repetitive tasks puts office workers at high risk for neck injuries. Poor ergonomic setups and lack of movement throughout the day are to blame for many injuries.
2. Healthcare Professionals: Neck Pain is common among doctors, nurses, and other healthcare employees who spend long shifts on their feet and often have to lift patients or bend over to perform medical procedures.
3. IT Professionals: IT professionals usually work long hours on the computer without taking enough breaks. This is often linked with poor posture and many hours of sitting, which can lead to chronic neck pain and associated injury.
4. Customer Service Representatives: People working in customer service jobs and spending hours on the phone without a headset also develop neck injuries as a result of improper positioning and repeated movements of the neck.

Schedule a Free Consultation with the Schmidt & Salita Law Team

If you’re dealing with a workplace neck injury, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation. At Schmidt & Salita Law Team, we’re here to help Minnetonka residents navigate their workers’ compensation claims and get the benefits they deserve. Call us today at (952) 473-4530 or visit us at 1600 Hopkins Crossroad. Minnetonka, MN 55305, to learn more about how we can assist you with your case.