|
Backs that Work
The average working day can often place a great deal of
stress and strain on our backs. Back injuries are an extremely common and expensive
health problem. Consequently, backs that are required to work demand special attention
– especially while lifting.
This information will help you understand proper lifting
techniques which will go a long way toward the prevention of unnecessary back injuries
and pain.
Improper Lifting
Almost everyone lifts objects of one size or another during
the average day. Unfortunately, most of us don’t stop to "think-through" the lifting
process before we begin the actual lift. Careless lifting mechanics place an extraordinary
strain on the back. These unnecessary performance demands frequently result in serious
injuries and crippling pain.
Proper Lifting
Fortunately, most back injuries that occur during the lifting
process can be avoided by learning and practicing the basics of proper lifting techniques.
These techniques are easy to learn and can be used in almost every lifting situation.
In a short time, proper lifting techniques can become lifelong, healthy habits.
Lifting techniques
Assess the object you are about to lift.
Be certain of how you intend to lift the object. If the
object is heavy, get someone to help you lift. Think before you lift.
Bend at your knees, not your waist.
Bend down with your knees and straddle the load you are
about to lift. Avoid bending at the waist and keep you back straight.
Tuck your pelvis under and firm-up your stomach muscles
just before you lift.
Tightening the stomach muscles helps support your back.
Hug the object you are lifting close to your body.
Unnecessary and potentially dangerous amounts of stress
and strain are placed on your back when objects are held away from your body.
Lift with your leg muscles.
Once you have a firm grip on the object, slowly straighten
your legs and feel the leg muscles doing the actual work of the lift.
Lifting Tips
The following group of "lifting tips" will enhance
your basic lifting technique and help you avoid potential back injuries.
|