If you are a delivery driver, you probably step into and out of your truck hundreds of times each day without much thought. When you step down, though, you put considerable pressure on your legs, knees, ankles and feet.
Even if you step cautiously, you may not be able to avoid a work-related injury forever. While workers’ compensation benefits are likely available to help you recover from your injury, you should understand your risk. Here are three common stepping injuries that often plague delivery drivers.
1. ACL tears
Your anterior cruciate ligaments are vital in facilitating knee movement. When stepping off a platform, you may inadvertently tear these ligaments. Torn ACLs often require surgery or other invasive medical procedures. Even worse, regaining full mobility may take considerable time and extensive rehabilitation.
2. Plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis can be extraordinarily painful. This condition occurs when the connective tissue on the bottom of your foot swells. Foot inflammation may make bearing your weight or carrying heavy loads difficult. If other treatment options fail, your doctor may recommend surgery to remedy the condition.
3. Ankle stress fractures
When you step out of your vehicle, you rely on your ankle joint to absorb your weight and the weight of the package you are delivering. Over time, though, you may develop an ankle stress fracture. This small bone break may cause you considerable pain.
Stress fractures are easy to ignore. Nevertheless, if you do not receive treatment for an ankle stress fracture, plantar fasciitis or knee injury, you may develop additional complications that further interfere with your ability to work.
