Avoiding Back Pain: Learn to Lift Properly
By Stephen R. Farris
Oftentimes our jobs require us to use devices in order to lift things. Those devices could include using a pallet jack, forklift, or if you're doing manual labor, maybe a back belt, which comes in handy if you're lifting items for long periods of time during your work schedule.
Even though you may be wearing a belt to help out your back, you still need to practice proper lifting techniques. A belt is only there to add support, but doesn't replace the proper way to lift things.
Recent reports from the Journal of the American Medical Association showed studies that a belt worn to help brace the back didn't stop workers from getting lower back injuries. While they may help to an extent, they're not a cure-all for injury. You still need to follow the steps to lifting properly.
Facing Your Task Head On
When lifting objects, make sure you're standing square in front of it with your body, bend at your knees and not your waist when picking it up.
Coming Back Up
Bringing the object you're picking up can cause you pain if not done correctly. Always, when standing back up, make sure you tighten your midsection and glutes while maintaining good control of your posture. The old adage is: Lift with your legs, not your back.
Don't Aim Too High
Once the object has been lifted, make sure it's not too high. Try to keep it as close to you as possible and when turning to walk with it, make sure you turn your body all at once. This is definitely not the time to try that new twisting dance move.
Can You Help Me With This?
Sometimes an object may be too heavy to lift by ourselves. Don't be afraid to ask someone to help you. It's best to ask rather than try to lift a heavy object by yourself and end up with an injury. Always practice safe lifting in the work environment and at home as well.
There are many techniques to lifting properly and these are just a few. However, your doctor or local chiropractor can give you answers to any questions you might have in order to save yourself from getting lower back pain or worsen it. They may have pamphlets or other material readily available to share with you on the subject of lifting properly.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Arlington, Tex.