A Chiropractor’s Advice Regarding the Proper Way to Lift Heavy Objects
This may sound crazy, but we’d rather not treat pain that could have been avoided. Everyone here at our NYC Chiropractic Care Clinic celebrates healthy and pain-free living and that is exactly what we wish for you all. However, we know that is not a reality and we’re here for you when you’ve simply had enough of living in pain. Today, we hope to reach anyone who will listen how to avoid a leading cause of severe back pain: poor lifting technique.
Lifting heavy objects is a routine part of life. When using proper lift techniques, heavy lifting can be done safely and efficiently. In this blog post, we'll go over the correct way to lift an object to prevent injury and make the task as easy as possible.
The first step in lifting an object is to assess its weight and size. If the object is too heavy or too large for you to lift on your own, it's best to ask for help or use a mechanical aid such as a dolly or hand truck. Once you've determined that you can safely lift the object on your own, the next step is to get in the proper position. Stand close to the object with your feet shoulder-width apart and your toes pointing forward. Bend your knees and keep your back straight. Grip the object firmly with both hands, one hand on each side. Keep your elbows close to your body and your shoulders back and down.
Slowly lift the object by straightening your legs and keeping your back straight. As you lift, keep the object close to your body and avoid twisting or bending at the waist. Once you have the object at waist level, take a moment to readjust your grip if necessary and take a deep breath. From there, you can safely move the object to your desired location.
When putting down the object, always bend your knees and keep your back straight. Avoid dropping the object or twisting your body. It's important to remember that proper lifting technique can prevent injuries such as back pain, strains, and sprains. It's also important to always be aware of your limitations and not to lift objects that are too heavy for you.
In summary, the correct way to lift an object is to assess the weight and size, get in the proper position, grip the object firmly with both hands, lift with your legs, and keep the object close to your body. Remember to take breaks and to never lift more than you can handle. If you're unsure about your ability to lift an object, it's best to ask for help or use a mechanical aid.
Contact West Side Comprehensive Care for more health and wellness tips.
