Sprains and strains, especially of the back and shoulders, are consistently among the most common types of workplace injuries. They occur in warehouses and restaurants, offices and construction sites, and they often involve a combination of repetition, awkward posture, and heavy loads.
The good news is that many are preventable with practical steps.
Why these claims are so common
Lifting, pushing, pulling, and carrying are part of many jobs. Fatigue, rushed work, and poor workstation setup add risk. A single event can cause an injury, but strains also develop gradually.
Why they can be costly
Back injuries can involve extended treatment and time away from work, which can raise claim costs. Over time, claims affect loss history and may influence experience rating and renewal pricing.
Practical prevention steps
Evaluate tasks that involve heavy or repetitive lifting and look for ways to reduce the load, such as carts, hoists, or splitting deliveries into smaller loads. Adjust shelving heights to limit reaching and bending. Provide training on safe body mechanics, while recognizing that training alone is not a substitute for better task design.
Ergonomics for office and desk work
Seated workers can also develop strain. Adjustable chairs, properly positioned monitors, and encouraging movement breaks can reduce discomfort.
Early reporting and early care
Encouraging employees to report discomfort early, before it becomes a serious injury, can help. Prompt treatment and appropriate modified duty may speed recovery.
Using your carrier’s resources
Many carriers provide loss control services, including site visits and training materials. Ask what is available to you.
Start a conversation
A short review of your claims history and operations can show where strain injuries originate. An independent agent can help you find carriers that provide strong loss control support. We are happy to talk through your program.