Back Injuries

While you may join a gym with the intention of becoming healthier, certain exercises and movements, especially when performed with improper form, can be dangerous. Back injuries and ruptured discs are among some of the most common gym injuries that a person may suffer. On this page, I will discuss some common back injuries and how they happen, as well as who is at fault for the injury. If a trainer contributed to your injury, you may be entitled to compensation.

Common Back Injuries In The Gym

Back injuries, including injuries to or around the spine, herniated discs, ruptured discs, nerve compression, and lower back pain, can be very common in the gym. These types of injuries usually occur due to improper form or lifting weights that are too heavy. Back injuries commonly occur on movements such as:

• Squats.
• Deadlifts.
• Bending exercises such as toe touches.
• Overhead movements.
• Twisting movements.
• Back extensions.
• High impact cardio.
• Lunges.
• Push ups.
• Bench press.

Preventing Back Injuries

If you are working with a personal trainer and you have a history of back pain or injury, you should inform your trainer of this issue. The personal trainer should modify your workout routine to accommodate your past injuries.

It can be a good idea to stay away from exercises that might aggravate your back pain altogether; however, if you want to try these exercises, make sure that you practice safety. First, make sure that you are using good form, which will reduce your risk of facing an injury. Also increase the weight that you are lifting slowly so that you do not put too much strain on your back.

You should also make sure that you have a spotter to assist you in case you have a problem during heavy lifts such as squats, deadlifts, snatches, bench presses, etc. If you are working with a trainer, they should spot you and be vigilant in watching your form and preventing injury. You may also use a weightlifting belt on heavy lifts to give your back more support.

Is My Trainer Responsible For My Injury?

Several factors need to be considered if you were injured while working out with a personal trainer.

First, consider if your trainer listened to your medical history that you should have provided before your sessions began. If a trainer knows you have a history of back issues and chooses movements that put a lot of strain on the back, they might contribute to an injury.

Also consider if your personal trainer was focused on you and your form when you were performing the movement in question. Did your trainer demonstrate proper form? Did they encourage you to lift modest weight in order to prevent injury? Did they spot you correctly and focus on you, or were they distracted by other things happening in the gym? All of these factors will come to play in determining if the trainer is liable for your injury.

Getting Help

If you think that you have a personal injury claim against a personal trainer because they contributed to a back injury, contact my office. We can review your situation and determine the best way to proceed and get justice for your case.