Many manual laborers have job duties that are hard on their knees. This can lead to a host of issues that can eventually result in surgery. Protecting the knees is a priority for these individuals. Injuries to the knees account for around 15 to 20% of all work-related injuries that cause an average of 16 lost workdays.
A person who has knee injuries will usually have limited mobility. The tasks they used to do without thinking might be far too difficult now. Things like bending down, squatting, lifting and kneeling can be a challenge. Even walking might be painful.
Ways to protect the knees
There are many things that employers can do that will help to protect their employees’ knees. Some of the most important involves using the right equipment. Raising surfaces so the worker doesn’t have to kneel down is beneficial. When that’s not possible, using knee pads can help.
All workers, regardless of what type of work they do, should get up and move around often. Moving the knees helps to keep them properly lubricated, which can prevent injuries. Additionally, the movement will keep the muscles and ligaments stretched and warm, which can also prevent injuries.
While some knees happen as the result of a single incident, others are due to cumulative trauma. Workers should pay attention to how their knees feel so they can go to the doctor if necessary. Knee pain isn’t normal so don’t slip into the thinking that you should just deal with the pain. If your knee damage and pain is related to your work activities, you have a right to expect your medical care to be covered under workers’ compensation and to receive any other benefits you are due.
Victims of work-related injuries sometimes have to fight for the benefits they’re due. Working with someone familiar with these matters is beneficial.