Have you ever lifted a heavy object and experienced back pain the day after? The reason that you are experiencing back pain is either because you used unsafe lifting practices, or you simply lifted something that was too heavy for you to be lifting.
The Mayo Clinic has outlined safe lifting practices for heavy objects, you can view the sideshow here. These practices are as follows:
- Start in a safe position. You should not be bent over the object with your back curved. This causes stress all throughout your back. Instead, start from a squatting or kneeling position, keeping your back perpendicular to the ground. When you grab onto the item, you should be able to bring your shoulders back to keep your spine in the proper position. Your spine has a natural curve, and you will want to maintain this curve throughout the lift – moving straight up when you stand.
- Let your legs do the work. Really focus on using those leg muscles to lift you off of the ground, trying to keep your back in its natural position.
- Avoid twisting. Twisting strains your back and can cause damage. If you are lifting an item by yourself, be sure that you keep your shoulders square. If you are lifting with the help of a friend, be sure that they do not rotate a large and heavy item, like a couch, while you are carrying it. This may cause you to falter and lose your grip. You will probably be twisting your back when you attempt to catch it again.
If you find that you cannot lift the items using the practices above, then you are probably lifting something that is too heavy for you to be lifting. Many people don’t know that they can hire Mulder’s Moving and Storage to lift the heavy things in their home. From heavy tables, boxes, and furniture to hot tubs, gun safes, and tanning beds, we have the manpower and proper training to lift these items without causing harm or injury to our backs. Save your back and give Mulder’s Moving and Storage a call today!
