Slow Down When Lifting!
By Donna Stark
Every few months or so, I need to venture into the stacks of bins that line the perimeter of my garage in order to get the latest season of decorations out or to find that long-lost item that somebody wants to borrow. And although I would generally classify myself as "somewhat intelligent," for some reason, all of my intelligence escapes me when I am standing in the midst of those plastic containers, boxes, and bags of stuff. What I am looking for is usually somewhere in the middle or bottom of the pile ... it's never an easy reach ... and what usually happens during the course of my search is that I move one box after another, haphazardly placing them wherever I can find space. Sounds all well and good, but the process is anything but. I'm juggling things, twisting my body, and sometimes balancing myself on the least stable surface in the garage. I always end up finding the object I am looking for, but not without great risk of injury.
Plan Your Lifts Better Than I Do
You certainly don't want to risk hurting yourself because you were in a rush or because you didn't plan accordingly, so don't do what I have done in the past and follow these tips instead!
- Plan your route - Before you begin to fill your hands with anything, take a look at the path you plan to take and make sure that it is clear and free of objects. Remove all tripping hazards!
- Propose - Get into the "marriage proposal" position to lift the object (one knee on the floor and the other leg in a bent position).
- Squat - You can also squat to lift the object if the kneeling position doesn't suit the situation. In this case, keep your feet parallel to each other or put one slightly in front of the other. Just avoid bending at the waist from a standing position!
- Get close - Position yourself as close as possible to the object that you are lifting. This helps to maintain your center of gravity and reduces the strain that could be placed on your lower back.
- Give your back a break - Do not rely on only your back muscles! Make sure your core muscles are engaged, use your leg muscles to lift the object, and avoid any abnormal twists or turns. When you are ready to place the object back down, be intentional with the same kind of movements.
Lifting With Ease
Don't be like me; slow down when lifting! It's always wise to stay safe by planning your lifts ahead of time. And if you do feel a twinge of pain after moving things around, you can always come in to see your local chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic! We are here to help!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Killeen, Tex.