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As we get older, we find ourselves needing to be more and more careful with our backs. Sleeping in the wrong position or even turning too quickly in an awkward position could have you in pain for days. Lifting is one daily activity that can put our backs in jeopardy.
Lifting can be anything from moving around household items and taking in the groceries to heavy lifting as part of our job or regular workout routine. While lifting is an important activity that helps to build up and maintain our muscles, it could also result in serious injury if not done correctly. So how do we lift properly to avoid injury?
What Are Common Lifting Problems to Avoid?
As stated above, lifting is a big part of our day-to-day lives. For many, it’s an unavoidable part of our workday. It can also be one of the most dangerous, as nearly 2 out of 5 musculoskeletal issues derived from the workplace are tied to back injuries, with lifting being a primary cause.
There are a number of common lifting problems that could be avoided if you go in knowing them. The biggest and most common no-no in lifting is lifting with your back. It may sound cliche to hear at this point, but it is still a common problem. Twisting your back while in the process of lifting or carrying something heavy must also be avoided. Lifting and moving too quickly can also cause injury and back pain.
What Are Proper Lifting Techniques?
Before getting into proper lifting techniques, stretching before lifting is important. Also, it’s okay to ask for assistance. Your back health and comfort are more important than potentially impressing your co-workers or your boss with how much you can lift.
One technique to always use is to bend your knees when lifting and keeping your back straight. Even if an item doesn’t appear to be heavy, it’s always the best way to go. You need to have a plan as well. Knowing where you’re lifting the item and how far you have to take it will help you be prepared and know when to take breaks if necessary.
Proper equipment is equally, if not even more, important. If lifting can be avoided or supplemented by using a cart or a lifting device, use it. You should use gloves designed for lifting to avoid items slipping, which could cause you to jolt to catch a falling item, injuring your back. Back or knee braces may also be helpful and should be considered.
East Bay Chiropractic Wellness Can Help Relieve Your Back Pain and Provide Lifestyle Advice
Being active and keeping up our strength is an important part of our overall body health, but if you aren’t lifting correctly, you could be causing more harm than good. That’s where East Bay Chiropractic Wellness comes in! We can help to relieve your back pain and provide lifestyle advice to keep the pain at bay.
We specialize in the Graston Technique®, a pain management technique that targets the adhesions and knots in your soft tissue that help combat inflammation to help you reduce and eliminate pain to get your life back on track. And with over 30 years of experience, you know you’ll be in good hands. Contact East Bay Chiropractic Wellness to learn more about how we can help you manage your chronic pain.
