If you are lifting an unwieldy object, like a heavy bag of soil, get someone to help you. Taking a chance on lifting it is not worth the risk to your back.
Technique for Lifting Heavy Objects
By Anne Asher, About.com Guide
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board
Bend from Your Hips and Knees.
Safe Lifting Techniques - Bending from the hips and knees will spare your back.
(c) Anne Asher 2007
Bend your knees and lift the object from underneath. You will be using the muscles in your hips and legs to do the heavy work. Avoid bending at the waist, which can cause you to injure a disk or strain your back.
Prev
- Get Close to the Object
- Take a Wide Stance
- Find Your Best Foot Position
- Bend from Your Hips and Knees.
- Hint for Safe Lifting: Keep a Long Spine
- Safe Lifting Hint: Keep Your Arms Close in to Your Body
- Safe Lifting Hint: Keep Your Knees in Line with Your Toes When You Bend
Injuries to Avoid - Use Safe Lifting Techniques
Safe Lifting Techniques - How and Why to Prepare Your Back
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