What is a common cause of lower back injuries for officers?

Lower back injuries among officers are often attributed to extended sitting or driving. Officers frequently spend long hours in their vehicles, which can lead to poor posture and strain on the lower back. The act of sitting for prolonged periods can compress the discs in the spine and weaken the muscles that support the back, making it more susceptible to injury. This is compounded by the fact that law enforcement work often requires quick movements and physical activity, which can further strain an already stressed back.

In contrast, while physical conditioning and having lower duty gear weight can actually contribute positively to an officer's overall fitness and injury prevention, excessive stretching is also not commonly associated with lower back injuries in this context. Therefore, the specific actions and conditions associated with extended sitting or driving play a significant role in the incidence of these injuries within law enforcement.