Protecting Your Back When Moving Objects

At Sea Spine Florida Orthopedic Institute we treat numerous patients that suffer from different types of back problems. One of the most common reasons for their pain comes from incorrectly lifting and moving heavy objects.

No matter how hard one tries, avoiding certain situations that may be hazardous for your back is difficult. Sometimes you have to lift heavy objects. As the weight of the object increases, so does the risk of injuring your back.

However, the actual stress on your back is also related to the position of your body when you lift an object. Understanding how body positioning affects your actions can decrease your chance of a back strain or injury.

Here's a few safety tips from Sea Spine Orthopedic Institute to keep in mind:

Think before you lift

Before you begin, assess the situation. Take a look at what needs to be moved and make sure that you are capable of lifting the object. A person can lift only a certain amount of weight. Even if you are extremely strong lifting heavy objects can be hazardous. When lifting an unfamiliar object test its weight by pushing it with your foot, this usually is enough to give you an idea. Before lifting anything, warm up, stretch your legs and back.

Make sure you have enough room to safely lift the object. If not make space to avoid obstacles. Look around before you lift, and look around as you carry. Make sure you can see where you are walking. Know where you are going to put the object down and avoid walking on slippery, uneven surfaces while carrying heavy items.

The right Technique

When lifting an object, position yourself over it, with your feet about shoulder-width apart. If possible place the object between your legs, so that you don't have to reach out for it. Squat down, keeping your head up, shoulders back, and spine erect. The bending should come only from your hips and knees. Get a strong grip on the object and keep it close to your body. Slowly straighten your knees and back while you stand up and use your legs to lift. Your leg muscles are the strongest muscles in your body they can handle burden better than your back can.

Walk with the item without twisting your body. Stand straight and take small steps. Remember that what goes up must come down, so set the object down using the same technique you used to lift it.

Take small breaks between lifts if you are moving several objects.

Moving heavy objects on a cart is much easier than carrying them, but even with a cart, you can still hurt your back if you're not careful. It is safer to push an object than pull it. When you push, you use your weight, the strength of your legs and your back to move the object. When you pull, the tendency is to rely solely on your back in a poor position, increasing the risk of a strain. If you can use a dolly or a forklift to avoid any stress go right ahead.

Team Work

If you can, get help before lifting a heavy object. Lifting and moving an object in unison will lower the risk of injury for the individuals involved. Assign one person the responsibility of saying "lift" so there is no confusion. Lift at the same time and have someone help you lead the way to avoid running into someone or something.

It is easy to keep lower back problems away and if you or anyone you know is experiencing problems caused from lifting heavy objects, please contact one of our many offices to set up an appointment.  Our professional team of nurses and surgeons would be more than happy to help you get back to a healthy lifestyle. 

If you're looking for qualified and experienced high-rated Florida orthopedic surgeons, contact SeaSpine Orthopedic Institute today at    

(http://www.seaspineortho.com/) or call  866-816-ORTHO.

 Sea Spine Facebook                             Sea Spine Twitter