What question did this study set out to answer?

The study aims to quantify the costs and trends associated with workers' compensation claims for lower-back injuries.

May 13, 2026Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine0 citations

Cost Drivers of Workers’ Compensation Low Back Injury Claims in an Academic Health System, 2015–2024

ASAkbar SharipLoma Linda University KKKimberly KinneyLoma Linda University CRCesar ReisLoma Linda University

Key Points

The study aims to quantify the costs and trends associated with workers' compensation claims for lower-back injuries.
Observational review of 797 closed claims from 2015 to 2024
Evaluation of demographics, occupation, mechanism, tenure, and days away from work
Analysis of temporal trends in incidence and costs
Mean cost of claims was $10,973, with a median of $3,294
Top 5% of claims averaged $114,548 and accounted for 52.1% of total costs
Incidence of lower-back claims declined by 8.4% annually

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Quantify costs, durations, incidence trends, and risk factors for WC lower-back injury claims in an academic health system. METHODS: Observational review of 797 closed claims (2015-2024) evaluating demographics, occupation, mechanism, tenure, days away from work, and temporal trends. RESULTS: Mean cost 10, 973 (median 3, 294) ; mean duration 197 days (median 74). Top 5% of claims averaged 114, 548 and 1, 819 days, accounting for 52. 1% of total costs. Nurses and patient care assistants were most affected; lifting and pushing/pulling were leading mechanisms. Higher costs were associated with longer duration, occupation, male sex, older age, and shorter tenure. Incidence declined 8. 4% annually. OEM-managed claims had lower mean costs than externally managed claims (9, 701 vs 19, 880). CONCLUSIONS: Lower-back WC claims show a substantial but declining burden; integrated OEM management was associated with lower costs.

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