Introduction
Back injuries are one of the most common workplace accidents in England and Wales. They can range from minor muscle strains to slipped discs and long-term spinal damage. If your injury was caused by employer negligence, you may be entitled to claim compensation.
This article explains what back injuries involve, eligibility to claim, evidence that helps, and how much you might receive.
At a glance
- Over 100,000 musculoskeletal disorders linked to the back were recorded in 2022/23, making back pain one of the most common workplace health issues (Source: WAAC analysis of the HSE MSD data published 2024)
- Back injuries may result from lifting, falls, repetitive strain or unsafe workstations.
- Employers must provide manual handling training, ergonomic equipment and safe systems of work.
- Compensation can include pain and suffering, physiotherapy, lost earnings and long-term care costs.
- You usually have three years from the accident or diagnosis to start a claim.
Get medical attention the same day, report what happened and photograph the hazard. Keep records on how the injury affects lifting limits, sitting and sleep. These simple details can really help your claim.
John Kushnick
Legal Operations Director
National Accident Law
What is a back injury at work?
A back injury is any harm affecting the muscles, ligaments, discs, or bones of the spine. These injuries can have a major effect on mobility and ability to work. Common workplace back injuries include:
- Muscle strains and sprains – often from heavy lifting or awkward movements.
- Slipped or herniated discs – causing nerve compression and severe pain.
- Fractures – from falls from height or being struck by objects.
- Chronic conditions – such as repetitive strain or poor workstation setup.
- Spinal cord injuries – the most serious, sometimes leading to paralysis.
See NHS: Back pain for medical guidance.
Examples of back injuries and causes
| Type of injury | Common workplace causes | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Muscle strain | Heavy lifting without training, awkward posture | Short-term pain, time off work, physiotherapy required |
| Slipped disc | Repetitive lifting, twisting, poor seating | Nerve pain, restricted movement, long recovery |
| Fractured vertebrae | Falls from ladders or scaffolding, falling objects | Severe pain, possible surgery, long-term impairment |
| Chronic back pain | Prolonged poor posture at desks, repetitive strain | Ongoing pain, reduced quality of life, workplace adjustments needed |
| Spinal cord injury | Serious falls, machinery accidents, vehicle collisions | Permanent disability, mobility issues, lifelong care |
Am I eligible to claim?
You may be eligible if:
- Your back injury occurred at work in the last three years, or you only recently realised it was linked to work, and
- Your employer failed to provide proper training, equipment, or safe working conditions, and
- Medical evidence confirms the link between your injury and workplace activities.
Not sure? Start with Do I have a claim and The claim process.
How much compensation can I claim?
Compensation covers two areas:
- General damages: for pain, suffering and loss of amenity. Awards range from minor soft tissue injuries to severe spinal damage, assessed using the Judicial College Guidelines.
- Special damages: financial losses such as physiotherapy costs, surgery, medication, travel expenses, lost earnings, future loss of earnings and care costs. Keep payslips, invoices and medical records to support your claim.
When is my employer responsible?
Employers have legal duties under the Health and Safety at Work Act and Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. They must:
- Provide proper manual handling training and equipment.
- Carry out risk assessments for lifting, falls and workstation ergonomics.
- Maintain safe workplaces, floors and machinery.
- Provide suitable seating and display screen equipment assessments.
Neglecting these duties may make them liable. For lifting accidents, see HSE: Manual handling.
Employment status and back injury claims
Back injuries are common in construction, warehousing and care due to unsafe lifting and weak risk controls. Your ability to claim typically doesn’t turn on your contract type. See how employment status affects your claim:
Evidence that strengthens a claim
- GP or hospital records confirming diagnosis and treatment.
- Accident book entries and incident reports.
- Photographs of the accident location or faulty equipment.
- Workstation assessments and risk assessments.
- Witness statements from colleagues.
Time limits for back injury claims
You usually have three years from the accident date or the date you first realised the injury was linked to work. Exceptions apply if you were under 18 or lack capacity. Read more in time limits for claims.
FAQs
New to claims? Start with our work injury claim guide, or see the full work injury claim FAQs.
What if I had a previous back problem?
You may still claim if work made your condition worse. See claims involving pre-existing conditions.
Do I need to attend a medical appointment?
Yes. An independent medical expert will assess your injury and future outlook. See What happens at a medical appointment.
Can I claim if I did not take time off work?
Yes. Even without absence, compensation may be possible. See Can I claim if I didn’t take time off?.
Call now for free specialist advice
We'll put you straight through to an experienced work injury advisor:
- Advice that's right for your case
- Check if you can claim
- No Win, No Fee explained clearly
If you decide to make a compensation claim, we'll connect you with the right solicitor.
Work Accident Advice Centre (WAAC) a Claims Management Company regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Ref number: 835858). Registration is recorded on the FCA website https://register.fca.org.uk/. Calls are confidential and are handled by our partners at National Accident Helpline. Our privacy policy explains how we protect your data.
About the author
Chris Salmon is a legal commentator and co-founder of Quittance Legal Services. He has written extensively about workplace accidents, employment rights and the claims process. Chris's work has been cited in national media and he regularly contributes practical guidance to help injured workers understand their options.
Last reviewed October 2025 by Chris Salmon
External references
- HSE: Back pain at work - how employers must manage manual handling and reduce risk of back injury.
- NHS: Back pain - causes, self-care and when to get medical help.
- HSE: Manual handling at work – brief guide (INDG143) - employer legal duties and safe handling methods.
- NHS Employers: MSK health in the workplace - how workplaces can prevent long-term back injuries.
- MSK Dorset NHS: Low back pain management - treatment and coping strategies when back pain persists.