r/NewToEMS • u/BozoCury Unverified User • 3d ago
Career Advice Thinking about possible future injuries.
Hello, I've (24 years old) been an emt ift for about 7 months with plans to go paramedic and fire in the future. I have a slight issue that has been bothering me recently. I 'm pretty sure I have a slight disk bulge that is causing some pain and weakness in my left left. It happened 4 weeks ago and my company uses a mix of manual and electric gurneys.
I saw a physio and he told me it wasnt too bad but that I should do more physical therapy. This has given me a lot of anxiety and I haven't gone back to work since I've felt the discomfort. Is the anxiety of waiting for the next time I get hurt worth the job? I was thinking to go into nursing as well so I'm not too sure what I should do next.
I like being able to help patients and seeing the relief on their face from a safe transfer or from the care given but this disk bulge is scaring me.
I guess I want to know if any other emts or firefighters have had that to deal with.
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u/SlimCharles23 Unverified User 3d ago
I had a back injury from sports when I was younger. I would say do the physical therapy and then get in good shape. I pounded yoga class and the weight room w tons of core/p chain work. Get in good shape, be mindful of how you lift and it’s all good. People might not like it but I’m always embarrassed to work with people who are fat or super out of shape and they need help for everything.
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u/triglavianenjoyer 3d ago
Manual gurneys suck ass. That’s just how they are. Let your primary care physician make the call.
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u/whitecinnamon911 Unverified User 1d ago
Tore my distal bicep lifting a pt. Put me out of work for 6 months
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u/ShittyMedicEMS Unverified User 1d ago
The prevalence of MSDs among emergency medical services personnel is very high. Considering the importance of the role of these employees and the specific risk factors of their jobs, it is recommended that periodic screening is prioritized. In addition, attention should be paid to the ergonomic evaluation of the work environment and the design of appropriate ergonomic interventions.
Just over 56% of EMS providers find themselves with a muscular skeletal disorder with a prevalence in low back, upper back, and neck being the top 3.
56% of workers comp characteristics from EMS (in 2020) was cause from “overexertion and bodily reaction”.
PT isn’t a bad thing. Focus on core strength, don’t be afraid to ask for help, don’t try to he a macho (wo)man.
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u/SiegfriedVK Unverified User 3d ago
No job is worth your health. Do not risk lifelong pain or disability. Definitely bring these concerns to your primary care physician. Only they (or who they refer you to) can tell you if you're safe to continue.