Knowing the proper way to lift heavy or bulky objects can reduce the risk of a future injury and prevent further damage to any you may already have. With this guide and your doctor’s help, you can learn three simple steps that can help you avoid injuring your back or neck while lifting heavy objects.
Chest Out
Bending your knees down to lift a heavy box or piece of furniture may seem like the right move, but this position will place excess pressure on the back, which can cause a serious injury.
The most important thing to remember when lifting a heavy object is that you should push your chest out and bend your hips before lifting. Ensuring your chest stays forward will keep your back straight through the entire lifting process.
Use Hips, Not Shoulders
Once in position, avoid using your shoulders and arms to take the brunt of the weight. When lifting a heavy object, you should use the strength of your hips and not your shoulders. If you need to change directions, do not twist erratically. Allow your hips to move first and then your shoulders will follow.
Let your hips move your body instead of your shoulders to reduce dramatic twisting that can injure the back and pelvis.
Use slow and careful motions when lifting with your hips. Fast movements, while attempting to lift a heavy object, can severely injure the back and neck, and their connecting ligaments.
Keep Weight Close
If the object is further away from your body’s center of gravity, you will need more force to lift it. If you have been treated for a back injury in the past, you were most likely told by a back pain management specialist to keep the object’s weight close to your body.
Holding out a heavy box away from your body will place tension on your neck, shoulders and spine. This tension will lead to inflammation that is not only painful, but also immobilizing. Holding the heavy object closer in towards your body will disperse weight evenly, reducing the force needed to lift and carry it.
Keeping the weight closer to your body is not only important for reducing the risk of an injury, but it is also a more comfortable position that will decrease the time it takes to complete the task.
Lifting objects that are too heavy can be problematic, but lifting them improperly can be physically damaging. To learn more about avoiding injury and back pain management in the Frisco, TX, area, call Tieperman Health and Wellness at (214) 705-1799.
Back Pain Management Frisco TX
Frisco TX Chiropractor | Tieperman Health & Wellness
8760 3rd St
Frisco, Texas 75034
214-705-1799