Filing A Claim For Back Pain Caused By Your Desk Job
Posted on August 7, 2025Working at a desk all day might seem cushy, but sitting for long hours with poor posture or an unsupportive chair can gradually lead to some serious back problems. Over time, this strain can result in chronic pain or even more severe spinal issues that interfere with your ability to work. If your job conditions have contributed to back pain or a spinal condition, you may be able to file a claim for workers’ compensation.
How Desk Jobs Can Lead To Back Problems
Many office jobs require employees to sit for long periods, often in front of a computer. Without proper ergonomic support, this routine can lead to repeated strain on the lower back, neck, and shoulders.
Conditions like herniated discs, nerve compression, or spinal misalignment are not uncommon in workers who remain in static seated positions throughout the workday. Over time, this physical stress can result in the need for medical treatment, physical therapy, or even surgery.
When Back Pain Becomes A Work-Related Injury
Back pain caused by your job may be considered a work-related injury if it developed due to repetitive stress, poor working conditions, or a lack of proper workplace support. This includes cases where an employer failed to provide adequate ergonomic furniture or ignored complaints about workstation setup.
To support your claim, you will likely need to show that your job duties contributed directly to your injury. Medical documentation, detailed work records, and witness statements from coworkers can all help strengthen your case. It’s also helpful to report your pain as soon as possible, even if it seems minor at first.
What Workers’ Compensation May Cover
A successful workers’ compensation claim for job-related back pain may include coverage for medical expenses, physical therapy, lost wages, and in severe cases, disability benefits. The exact benefits will depend on the severity of the injury and how much it interferes with your ability to perform your job.
It’s important to file your claim promptly, as most states have strict time limits for reporting workplace injuries. Consulting with our workers’ compensation attorney can help you understand what you may be eligible for and how to approach the process.
When Spinal Damage Is More Serious
In some cases, back pain caused by a desk job can develop into more serious spinal cord conditions that may require long-term treatment or lead to lasting disability. If you are dealing with a significant injury involving the spine, you may need to explore additional legal options outside of workers’ compensation, particularly if third-party negligence was involved.
Attorneys like our colleagues at Mickey Keenan P.A. can attest that claims involving spinal injuries often require a detailed evaluation of medical records and employment history to build a strong case. Working with an experienced spinal cord injury lawyer can help determine if further legal action is warranted in more drastic cases.
Take Action Early
Back pain may start as a minor annoyance, but it can quickly develop into a long-term problem that affects your work and quality of life. If your job contributed to the pain or injury, don’t ignore it. Report the issue, seek medical attention, and consider filing a workers’ compensation claim.
If you’re unsure how to move forward or need help with the process, reach out to a qualified legal professional in your community. Filing a timely and well-supported claim can make a difference in your recovery and your ability to continue working.