Back Injuries.

Back Injury at Work Compensation Solicitors.

Injuring your back at work can be an incredibly debilitating experience, causing both physical and psychological suffering due to the long term effects of this type of injury.

A minor back injury may seem insignificant at first, but the symptoms can deepen and develop over time, causing chronic pain further down the line, especially if treatment is not initially sought.

Back injuries are the second most common type of injury in the workplace, and often affect people for many years beyond the incident. After the initial accident, the pain may begin to worsen, perhaps leading to you having to change jobs or give up work altogether due to your physical limitations.

If you have sustained a back injury after an accident at work which wasn’t your fault, you may be able to claim compensation. If the injury occurred due to somebody else’s negligence we can help you to seek justice and receive a financial pay-out which can aid you on your journey back to health.

Here at Lanyon Bowdler our team of personal injury solicitors are highly experienced at handling claims for people who have sustained a back injury in the workplace. We have the knowledge and expertise to ensure your claim is successful, and we can help you to access specialist treatments and therapies that you may not normally have access to. Please get in touch today and a member of our team will be happy to discuss your case and answer any questions you may have.

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What is a Back Injury?

A back injury is any kind of injury which affects the spine or the muscles of the back. The spine forms the main support structure of the body, and consists of disc-shaped bones called vertebrae which are stacked on top of one another, acting as shock absorbers for the body.

There are a number of different kinds of back injury that may occur, including:

  • Strains and sprains
  • Disc herniation and bulges
  • Fractures and breaks
  • Spinal stenosis
  • Nerve damage
  • Soft tissue injuries
  • Ruptured discs
  • Brachial plexus injury
  • Paraplegia

Some back injuries are more debilitating and life changing than others, for example a spinal fracture or a disc herniation is likely to involve lost or limited mobility and an extended period of rest and recovery, whilst a strained back muscle may respond well to anti-inflammatory painkillers and heat treatment, allowing the sufferer to carry out their usual daily tasks.

Your Back Injury Compensation Questions Answered

What are the common causes of back injuries at work?

Your back plays a part in virtually every movement you make, which leaves it open to injury from a variety of different sources. Some of the most common causes of back injuries in the workplace can include:

  • Lifting, pushing, or pulling heavy objects
  • Repetitive movements
  • Awkward movements
  • Bending and twisting
  • Poor posture whilst sat at a desk
  • Sitting for long periods of time
  • Standing for long periods of time
  • Long distance driving
  • Slips, trips, and falls
  • Stress or trauma to the back
  • Being in a vehicle collision

Many back injuries at work can be attributed to improper training in manual handling, or the absence of tools which negate the need to bend, twist, and move your back awkwardly.

If your employer has been negligent in providing appropriate equipment or training to allow you to perform your job safely, and you have sustained a back injury as a result, you may be entitled to claim compensation.

What are the symptoms of back injuries?

The symptoms of a back injury typically depend on which area of the back was injured in the accident. However, some of the most common symptoms of a back injury include:

  • Lower back pain
  • Upper back pain
  • Muscle stiffness
  • Numbness and tingling
  • Weakness
  • Muscle spasms
  • Pain spreading to the legs
  • Loss of balance
  • Immobility

If you have been involved in a workplace accident and you begin to notice any of the above symptoms, or any type of pain or discomfort in your back, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.

Your doctor will usually examine you and ask some questions in order to establish the cause and severity of your pain, and they may also refer you for further testing such as an x-ray or MRI scan.

How is a back injury diagnosed?

In the first instance, your GP will perform a physical examination and ask you about your symptoms in order to ascertain what has happened and what type of injury you are suffering from.

If the initial physical examination is inconclusive or a more detailed assessment is required, your GP will refer you to a hospital for further testing. This will usually involve an x-ray or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan in order for the doctor to see inside your body and identify any broken or fractured vertebrae, and locate any bulging or herniated discs accurately.

How is a back injury treated?

The treatment prescribed for a back injury will typically depend on the type of injury that has occurred, and the level of pain and discomfort the patient is experiencing. Some of the different treatments available include:

  • Analgesics such as ibuprofen, paracetamol, naproxen, or codeine
  • Heat or ice packs to ease the pain and reduce any swelling
  • Physiotherapy to strengthen the back and core muscles
  • Surgery to correct a herniated disc or a fracture

In many cases, a combination of different treatments will often be recommended for patients. For example, your doctor may suggest taking anti-inflammatory medication to manage the pain, and also refer you to a physiotherapist to aid your long term recovery.

What are the long-term effects of back injuries?

Some back injuries can cause acute pain which clears up after a short time, leaving the individual able to resume their usual daily activities without any further problems.

However, some back injuries can cause chronic pain which affects the person on a long term basis, potentially for the rest of their lives.

A back injury can have a long term effect on a person in the following ways:

  • Chronic and debilitating pain
  • Ongoing issues with mobility
  • Bladder or bowel dysfunction
  • Anxiety and/or depression
  • Social isolation and/or agoraphobia
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder
  • Paraplegia, tetraplegia, or quadriplegia

Suffering from the long term effects of a back injury can also mean that you have to give up your job, make adaptations to your home and/or vehicle, and in some cases you may require outside help from a carer to carry out personal care and assist with daily tasks.

If you have suffered from any kind of long term physical and psychological injuries after a back injury accident at work you may be able to claim compensation. Our specialist personal injury lawyers can help you to navigate the legal process whilst also aiding you in your recovery.

Is my employer liable if I have injured my back at work?

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 your employer is required by law to ensure that you are able to carry out your work as safely as is reasonably possible. This will look different in each individual workplace depending on the nature of the work being carried out. For example, if you work in an office your employer should provide a suitable desk and chair in which you can work comfortably without placing undue strain on your back. Whilst if you work in an environment where manual handling of large or heavy objects is required, your employer should ensure that you are adequately trained in safe lifting procedures, and that you have access to equipment and machinery to aid in moving heavy loads.

If you have been involved in a back injury accident at work you will need to be able to prove that your employer’s negligence was the cause of the accident. You can do so by gathering medical records, accident report forms including those submitted to RIDDOR, witness statements, CCTV footage, and photographs of your injuries and the scene of the accident. A specialist personal injury solicitor can help you to put together a portfolio of evidence to support your claim, and the team here at Lanyon Bowdler have a wealth of experience and expertise in this area so please don’t hesitate to contact us for further information.

What constitutes employer negligence for a back injury?

Your employer owes you a duty of care to ensure that the workplace is a safe environment in which to carry out your job role. A breach in this duty of care could be considered negligence, and if the negligent actions of your employer have led to your back injury accident there is a strong chance that your compensation claim will be successful.

The kind of actions that constitute employer negligence could include:

  • Failure to provide suitable training
  • Failure to provide suitable equipment
  • Failure to provide adequate rest breaks
  • Failure to ensure the work environment is free from trip hazards
  • Failure to carry out regular risk assessments in the workplace
  • Failure to provide sufficient supervision and support to employees

This list is not exhaustive, and if your employer was negligent in any other way which led to your back injury, you may be able to make a claim for compensation. After your injury it is important to proceed quickly with your legal case as you only have three years from the date of the accident in which to begin your claim, unless you were a minor at the time of the accident, in which case the three year period would begin when you turn 18.

Testimonials

What our clients say.

It is a pleasure to act as a case manager for clients represented by the personal injury team at Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors. Lanyon Bowdler PI team are proactive and truly client centred. They understand the clients they represent and work tirelessly to achieve the best they can for them. Through collaborative working we have been able to achieve the best outcomes possible for our clients.

Rachel Dodwell
Community Case Management Services Ltd

As a case manager I work closely with litigation teams to ensure our clients get the expertise, support and care they need to bring them back to as close to their life pre-injury as possible. This is very often not an easy journey, and balancing the desires of the client to live their best life with collating and presenting the facts of how that life is altered, can be very challenging. Having worked alongside Lanyon Bowdler’s team for many years, I have noted it is always easier to strike this balance, when they are involved.

Shelley Lewis
AJ Case Management

Having worked with a succession of personal injury specialists at Lanyon Bowdler over the years, I have seen at first hand the top-flight legal expertise that they bring to every case and the commitment to obtaining the absolutely best result for every client. Equally importantly, I am struck by the compassion, empathy and humanity with which every client is treated. They go above and beyond to ensure their clients receive the very best representation.

Anthony Reddiford
Guildhall Chambers

The team at Lanyon Bowdler show an exceptional knowledge and understanding of their client’s needs, not just in terms of the claim that they lead, but also the emotional and personal experiences that they will have on that journey.

Jenny Whittall
JMW Ltd

Lanyon Bowdler provide seamless ongoing emotional support, information and guidance to their clients over what may be many years of a PI claim. This significantly helps mitigate the “stress” of a claim for their clients, and in my medicolegal experience puts them way ahead of other legal firms.

Professor Tony Elliott
Director UK Centre for Medico-Legal Studies

Contacted Lanyon Bowdler six months after an injury at work. They offered me several of their services, including no win no fee which I ended up choosing. The solicitor was extremely helpful, was always keeping me updated when there was news and answered promptly when asked for any updates or when I asked any questions. I was very happy with the final settlement and the advice I received proved to be the best for my case. I felt like the extra bit of care was extended to give me a good idea of the options I had to choose from which really helped to inform any decision.

Matthew
via ReviewSolicitors

From my initial approach to the final positive outcome I felt my solicitor was expending all his energy to win the case. I was kept informed throughout and was given straightforward advice on how to proceed. The end result was an acceptable outcome and the pay-out was prompt.

Eric
via ReviewSolicitors

Very friendly and quick to respond, highly recommend for anyone looking for legal advice.

Anonymous
via ReviewSolicitors

I couldn’t be happier with the service I have received over the past six years. I would highly recommend Lanyon Bowdler for legal requirements.

Jayne
via ReviewSolicitors

Since dealing with Lanyon Bowdler they have been diligent, efficient and at all times very helpful along with being structured in dealing with matters, fees and clarity on all levels. Thank you.

Michael
via ReviewSolicitors

I was clearly informed of progress step by step. The service you provided was very good.

Peter Weston
Shrewsbury

All work carried out effectively and efficiently.

Hubert Jones
via ReviewSolicitors

An excellent service with solicitors that you can talk to and who give you a clear understanding of all necessary legal implications and interpretations.

Eric
via ReviewSolicitors

From start to finish we had excellent service. Friendly, approachable and professional.

Carl Gittins
via ReviewSolicitors

Very clear, concise advice and guidance, easy to understand.

Ian Jamieson
Telford

Good service provided throughout with clear communication throughout with all options explored.

Lee

I can thoroughly recommend the highly professional and supportive service received over the last few months.

Heather
via ReviewSolicitors

Responsive, supportive, approachable, clear and empathetic.

Lisa Thacker

Professional and prompt communication. Supportive and client focused.

Lisa Thacker
Jennifer M Whittall Ltd

Whenever I have had need to contact Lanyon Bowdler I have always received a fast, concise and friendly response.

Lee Mortimer
UK Case Management

Definitely would use Lanyon Bowdler again if I need the use of a solicitor.

Mark Bowkett
via ReviewSolicitors

Smooth and efficient service from very professional firm.

Tim
via ReviewSolicitors

We were particularly impressed with the quality of work, the speed and excellent communication.

Allenby Douglas Ltd
Oswestry

Very friendly and approachable. Very good advice

Ivor Brown
via ReviewSolicitors

Great Service; Lanyon Bowdler were excellent from the outset. Straightforward and easy process. I just sat back and waited.

Paul Rowe
via ReviewSolicitors

Everything has been professional, efficient and courteous throughout and we are very pleased, both with the service and with the eventual outcome of our case. Everything was first class and exceeded our expectations. Thank you again for providing such splendid service. It is really appreciated.

Mr N J & Dr S J Browne
Llanfyllin

Contact our Back Injury at Work Claims Solicitors

Please give our Personal Injury Lawyers a call for a friendly, confidential, conversation about how we can help support you with a Back Injury At Work Claim. There is no commitment or charge for our initial assessment. Please contact a member of the team or complete our online inquiry form toward the top of this page on the right-hand side. We can also arrange a home or hospital visit when more convenient.

Lanyon Bowdler has offices in ShrewsburyBromyardHerefordLudlowOswestryTelford, and Conwy in North Wales.

We are one of the most recognised firms of solicitors in Herefordshire, Shropshire, Mid and North Wales, Birmingham, and the Midlands, synonymous with excellence. We are able to offer a wide range of pricing options including fixed fees and service level guarantees.

As a leading national law firm, we regularly act for clients on Back Injury At Work Claims across the country. We can represent you wherever you live in England or Wales.

Our people

Meet the team.

Dawn Humphries
Dawn Humphries
Partner
Personal Injury
Debbie Humphries
Debbie Humphries
Partner
Personal Injury
Phillip Roberts
Phillip Roberts
Partner
Personal Injury
Isabella Drummond
Isabella Drummond
Paralegal Apprentice
Personal Injury | Medical Negligence
Amanda Clarke
Amanda Clarke
Legal Support Assistant
Personal Injury
Helen Gale
Helen Gale
Legal Support Assistant
Personal Injury
Kelly Gibbons
Kelly Gibbons
Legal Support Assistant
Personal Injury
Amy Burgoyne
Amy Burgoyne
Legal Support Assistant
Personal Injury
Karen Clarke
Karen Clarke
Associate Legal Executive (FCILEX)
Personal Injury
Phyllis Smith
Phyllis Smith
Senior Litigation Assistant
Personal Injury
Alexander Spanner
Alexander Spanner
Associate Solicitor
Personal Injury
Morgan Thompson
Morgan Thompson
Legal Support Assistant
Personal Injury
Cameron Petch
Cameron Petch
Legal Support Assistant
Personal Injury
Tabassum Jamil
Tabassum Jamil
Trainee Solicitor
Personal Injury
Jo Kneller
Jo Kneller
Solicitor
Personal Injury
Sarah Martin
Sarah Martin
Costs Draftsman
Medical Negligence | Personal Injury
Jane Miles
Jane Miles
Associate Solicitor
Personal Injury
Andrew Morris
Andrew Morris
Trainee Costs Draftsman
Medical Negligence | Personal Injury
Miriam Homer
Miriam Homer
Solicitor
Personal Injury
David Hughes
David Hughes
Associate Costs Manager
Medical Negligence | Personal Injury
Knowledge

Case studies.

Case Study
Grass in sunlight

Injuries Sustained to Non Dominant Ring Finger

The claimant worked for a firm of solicitors and sustained injuries to her non dominant ring finger when using a ladder ...
Dawn Humphries • 26 Feb 2024
Case Study
Lanyon Bowdler case study icon

Damages Awarded After Claimant Fell From Ladder

The claimant fractured his neck after falling from a ladder whilst spraying a wasp’s nest through a long lance and wea...
Dawn Humphries • 26 Feb 2024
Case Study
Lanyon Bowdler case study icon

Claimant Awarded £1m After Work Accident

The claimant required major reconstructive surgery and extensive rehabilitation. The claimant suffered complete loss of ...
Dawn Humphries • 26 Feb 2024
Case Study
Lanyon Bowdler case study icon

£5,000 for Work Shoulder Injury

The claimant had not received training from his employers in the use of the truck, nor in manual handling....
Dawn Humphries • 26 Feb 2024
Case Study
Lanyon Bowdler case study icon

£1m for Claimant Blinded at Work

The Serious Injury Claim settlement made provision for the fact the claimant suffered complete loss of earnings capacity...
Dawn Humphries • 26 Feb 2024
Case Study
Leaves in the shade

Falling Machinery Causes Accident at Work

As the piece of machinery was being laid down to a horizontal position, the weight overcame all involved causing the mac...
28 Jul 2023
Knowledge

Latest knowledge.

Case Study
Grass in sunlight

Injuries Sustained to Non Dominant Ring Finger

The claimant worked for a firm of solicitors and sustained injuries to her non dominant ring finger when using a ladder ...
Dawn Humphries • 26 Feb 2024
Case Study
Lanyon Bowdler case study icon

Damages Awarded After Claimant Fell From Ladder

The claimant fractured his neck after falling from a ladder whilst spraying a wasp’s nest through a long lance and wea...
Dawn Humphries • 26 Feb 2024
Case Study
Lanyon Bowdler case study icon

Claimant Awarded £1m After Work Accident

The claimant required major reconstructive surgery and extensive rehabilitation. The claimant suffered complete loss of ...
Dawn Humphries • 26 Feb 2024
Case Study
Lanyon Bowdler case study icon

£5,000 for Work Shoulder Injury

The claimant had not received training from his employers in the use of the truck, nor in manual handling....
Dawn Humphries • 26 Feb 2024
Case Study
Lanyon Bowdler case study icon

£1m for Claimant Blinded at Work

The Serious Injury Claim settlement made provision for the fact the claimant suffered complete loss of earnings capacity...
Dawn Humphries • 26 Feb 2024
Case Study
Leaves in the shade

Falling Machinery Causes Accident at Work

As the piece of machinery was being laid down to a horizontal position, the weight overcame all involved causing the mac...
28 Jul 2023
Blog

Could Jurassic Park Be Held Liable?

I thought to celebrate the release of Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, I would look at the responsibility Jurassic P...
Dawn Humphries • 13 Jun 2018
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