Until an injury occurs, many people fail to realize exactly how much they use the muscles in their lower back. An individual’s back is engaged and necessary for nearly every movement and certainly any that involves walking or lifting. Even sitting can cause an individual’s back to become strained and ache. In cases where an individual strains, pulls or tears the muscles in his or her back, it can be difficult to perform simple everyday tasks much less work.
In some cases an injury to the lower back just needs time to heal. In other cases, however, a lower back injury may prove to be chronic and debilitating in nature. Injuries suffered at work, in car accidents or while playing sports are among the most common causes of serious back injuries. Any injury to the muscles, tissues, nerves or bones that make up an individual’s back can result in an individual suffering pain that ranges from a dull ache to shooting and radiating pain.
To help treat lower back pain, a doctor may recommend that an individual undergo surgery, engage in an exercise regimen or take certain prescription drugs. In many cases, however, resting the muscles is the best way to prevent further pain and injury. Often a back injury never fully heals and may inhibit an individual’s ability to walk far distances, stand for an extended period of time or lift objects over a certain weight.
For individuals who have suffered a debilitating back injury and cannot work, Social Security disability income benefits can help provide much-needed monthly income. Individuals who plan to apply for SSDI benefits must submit comprehensive and convincing documentation of their injury. In many cases, first-time SSDI applicants are not accepted to the program. For individuals who plan to reapply for benefits, an attorney who handles SSDI matters may be able to assist.
Source: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, “Low Back Pain Fact Sheet,” 2014
