Ow, OW – My Back! Don’t Let this Be YOU!
Author: Shannon Miller Lifestyle
What do the following scenarios have in common:
- picking up your toddler,
- moving heavy boxes from one room to another after a big move,
- and rearranging your living room furniture?
What they have in common is the possibility of hurting your poor back if you are not careful!
Your back is a very important part of your body – you should be kind to it!
Check out the following tips on how to be safe when lifting heavy objects (or small children!)…
- Lift with your strong leg muscles, not your back muscles! Tuck in your chin and keep your back as straight as possible.
- Avoid lifting items that are simply too heavy or too cumbersome to get a grasp on.
- Avoid twisting your body while carrying heavy objects.
- Only attempt getting multiple people to carry something after carefully coordinating how everyone will contribute.
- When placing a heavy object on the ground (or to a lower position), bend your knees – don’t stoop. Again, let your legs do the work – not your back!
TIP: To avoid an “Ow, OW – my back” moment, try using these tips the next time you are forced to do heavy lifting. And pass the word along !
Source: “Safe Lifting and Handling Techniques”, Brookhaven National Laboratory.