Firefighting is a highly dangerous job. The flames are only a fraction of the risk you will experience as a firefighter. Running in and out of burning buildings as a first responder means there is a high chance of slamming into an object or structures falling on you.
Therefore, one can assume that injuries are a regular part of the job. Data from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates 65,650 firefighter injuries in 2022.
If you are a member of a local firehouse, Dr. Terry McSweeney can help! He is the premier firefighter injury chiropractor in Newark, NJ, and looks at the different types of firefighter injuries and how a chiropractor can help.
Common Musculoskeletal Injuries Firefighters May Suffer on the Job
The most common musculoskeletal injuries firefighters have include the following:
Anyone who has to run or move quickly for a living will most likely develop musculoskeletal issues. It doesn’t matter if you’re a footballer or a store assistant.
Of course, firefighters do more than just run or walk quickly. As a firefighter, you’re out there saving lives. To make things even more dangerous, you can’t predict every obstacle you will face when a building is on fire.
Burning shelves and beams can fall to the ground and block your path, leading to slips and falls. The NFPA reports that 10% of all firefighter injuries are due to slips and falls.
Additionally, you’ll have to wear heavy protective gear that can make movement difficult. You may need to haul equipment up a ladder if you’re working a building off the ground.
Put all of this together, and it’s fair to say that workplace or occupational health and safety is a tall order for firefighters. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, 42% of firefighter injuries occur at the site of a fire.
The top musculoskeletal work injuries firefighters may experience include:
- Strains and sprains. Running in and out of buildings, lifting heavy objects, or carrying people can cause strains and sprains in the ankles, knees, shoulders, and back.
- Spinal injuries. Firefighters go through repetitive motions, most times in awkward positions. This can cause damage to the spine, bringing with it a lot of pain.
- Trauma injuries. Falling off a ladder and bearing the weight of a collapsed structure can cause concussions, fractures, and dislocations.
How A Newark, NJ Chiropractor Can Help With Firefighter Injuries
Chiropractors only help with firefighter injuries that affect the muscles and the skeleton. When you visit the chiropractor, they will create a special treatment plan to increase your chances of recovery.
Chiropractic care focuses on:
- Pain relief. Chiropractors use adjustment techniques to realign the spine and joints, relieving pain by reducing pressure on the nerves.
- Injury rehabilitation. After you suffer a musculoskeletal injury as a firefighter, relearning how to use the affected part of the body could take a while. Chiropractors will combine different methods to help you regain strength and control in that area of your body.
- Injury prevention. Many chiropractic treatments help prevent re-injury. For instance, getting treatment for rotator cuff injury can reduce the risk of lifting heavy equipment with poor posture.
Book Your Appointment for Chiropractic Treatment Today
Do you need chiropractic treatment for your firefighter injuries? Schedule an appointment with Mount Prospect Health Center today.
Our practice accepts most commercial health insurance plans, as well as some workers’ compensation, and most no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection). Same-day appointments may be available.
Call Mount Prospect Health Center today at 973-485-2332 to get started. We employ various types of chiropractic techniques for pain relief.
FAQs
What Is the Benefit of Seeing a Chiropractor for a Work Injury?
Chiropractic care is non-invasive and can help you recover without taking medications.
How Many Visits Will I Need?
The number of visits depends on your injury and the chiropractor’s approach to treatment.
Does Chiropractic Care Work for Firefighter Injuries?
There’s plenty of evidence to show that chiropractic care works for people with musculoskeletal injuries.
