Work related injuries could limit or end your ability to perform your usual occupation. Whether these work related injuries last a few days or the remainder of your life, their affects are far-reaching. Work related injuries can result in permanent disability. Often, they result in financial losses: work related injuries can require costly medical treatment and recuperation time may mean lost wages.

Work related injuries are any injuries or illnesses that result from the employee's required job duties. Work related injuries can happen at any mandatory event or location, or whenever the employee is being paid.

Those who suffer work related injuries should report them as soon as possible to their employer using the proper forms. Work related injuries should also be investigated by a physician, as medical evidence for claims of work related injuries is generally required in the form of a physician's statement. Dr. Jones or his Executive Assistant, Linda Hayes can help you with these forms. Evidence of work related injuries allows the victim to qualify for worker's compensation and associated benefits. While the documentation for work related injuries is usually submitted through the employer, generally a state or federal worker's compensation office decides the work related injuries claims.

The vast majority of work related injuries that Chiropractic can be effective in treating brake down into 3 catagories:

1. Injuries caused while lifting
   
2. Injuries caused by a fall
   
3. Overuse or Repetitive Stress Injuries

Safe lifting techniques keep your back in balance and can protect you and your back from accidental strain and overload. It makes sense -- to keep your back working smoothly and problem-free, lift correctly.

1. Visualize the Lift
The first step In safe lifting is T*H*I*N*K*I*N*G !!!!!
"Can I lift it by myself?" "Can I hold it close to my body?" If the load is manageable, follow the remaining tips:

2. Tuck Your Pelvis
By tightening your stomach muscles, you can "tuck" your pelvis to keep your back's three curves In balance.

3. Bend Your Knees
Bend your knees instead of your waist. Let the large muscles in your legs support your back and carry the weight

4. "Hug" The Load Try to hold the object you're lifting as close to your body as possible, as you gradually straighten your legs to a standing position. Remember, the key is to lift with your legs NOT your back. Safe lifting is easy to learn, simple to do, and may be one of the most important skills you'll ever learn.

Finally, and maybe most importantly:

5. Avoid Twisting
Twisting while you lift or carry increases the load on your spine and can lead to serious injury.

To avoid twisting, be sure that your knees and torso are moving in the same direction when lifting.