It's estimated that employers lose $7.4 billion a year from workers who suffer with back pain, according to a study published in Spine. This includes medical expenses and time out of work for doctor's visits and sick time.
Back pain is one of the most common complaints in the workplace, and it can be very painful and debilitating. That's why it's in the best interest of employers to educate employees on how to prevent injury.
Injuries can happen at home while lifting something incorrectly, on the loading dock or at the computer. Communication should include information on how to correctly lift and practice good posture.
To address the costly problem, FedEx has implemented the "4-Before" program. Each employee receives customized instruction for four stretches best suited to be done before they begin their workday.
The company has also placed athletic trainers at its highly populated workplaces so if an injury does occur, employees can request to be taken immediately to a trainer who will analyze the problem and work with them to resolve it.
Trainers will also accompany the employee to the doctor. Fedex has seen a reduction in sprains and strains of as much as 50 percent in some business units.
General Electric provides employees with physical therapists and occupational health clinics on site, but if workers need to see an outside physician, the company offers a list of specialized doctors skilled in occupational health.
With the high cost of health care, this is just one more area employers can be proactive to keep employees healthy and give them the information to manage their health.
