How to Lift and Avoid Back Injury

How to Lift and Avoid Back Injury

If you have been getting ready for your move, you have probably by now lugged some boxes around your house. Learn the proper lifting techniques and save your back!

Man moving crews have had appropriate training and know how to lift heavy objects while avoiding injury, but when it comes to lifting things on our own, many of us could use a lesson in how to properly lift light or heavy objects. As long as you know the proper technique, lifting shouldn’t be too hazardous. By learning these techniques you can prevent back pain or injury.

If you stop and think for a moment about how often we stress our backs, you will probably find that we do it almost every day from simple things like bending down to pick up laundry, pets, or even a piece of paper. If the proper technique isn’t used, even small items can cause back pain.

The most common mistake made when lifting is arching the back to use the back muscles. When lifting, use you leg and buttock muscles instead. It is important have a solid foundation for your spine by bending your knees. The next common mistake is lifting an object too far from the body. Watch how your moving crew gets close to what they are lifting. You need to keep the center of weight no more than eight inches from your body to decrease pressure on your spine.

Here are a few more principles you should take into consideration before lugging boxes and other items around your house. Be careful not to reach when lifting items that are higher than your chest level. This puts a considerable amount of pressure on your lower back; so when you need to lift items above your head, make sure to use a stool or a ladder. Furthermore, try not to twist when lifting heavy objects, as that can add more force to your back. If you need to turn when lifting, change your footing instead of twisting your back, but make sure you have stable footing.

It is also important to remember that the more you bend and lift, the more fatigued your muscles become. The more fatigued they become, the greater the risk of injury. If you have a long day of lugging around your moving boxes and other items, take frequent breaks to help rejuvenate your strength.

About Author

Josh Allen is an editorial staff member of California New York Express. To learn more about Long Distance Movers and Long Distance Moving visit moveeast.com or call 1-888-680-7200.

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