Know About Safe and Unsafe Lifting Techniques to Avoid Back Pain

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We never realize that something simple like lifting an object can land us in trouble. But, a lot of back injuries happen while lifting heavy objects in a wrong way. This not only leads to pain in the back but, muscles of the arms and the legs get equally strained. So, in order to avoid these injuries that lead to back ache, here are a few lifting techniques that you must know. Some conventional ways of lifting objects that we use in our daily life are considered unsafe; some light is thrown on them too. Have a look!

The safe technique of lifting
* Plan the process before lifting: It is always better to know in advance the course of your action as per the path and direction. If there is another person involved, both of you must know the plan well.
* Lift close to your body: You must hold the object to be lifted close to your body. This will also help maintain the right balance between yourself and the object. Holding objects farther from the body needs more strength and effort.
* Your feet should be shoulder width apart: Having your feet close together while lifting an object would make you unstable and also make the movement difficult. Keep your feet shoulder width apart to balance the centre of gravity.
* Keep your back straight and bend your knees: Plan your motion in advance, think about all the postures you would make. Always bend your knees in front of the object you need to lift. See that your back is straight. Raise it when you lower to the ground with knees bent.
* Tighten your stomach muscles: The abdominal muscles are stronger, tightening them would give firmness to your back and as a result no excessive pressure will be applied on the spine.
* Lift with your legs: Legs are much stronger than the back, so make apt use of them while lifting a heavy object.
* If you feel strain on the back, do not hesitate to get help.
* A belt or a support: Do wear a belt or a support while lifting if you are vulnerable to backache.

Always remember (the unsafe moves)
* You must never bend your back to lift something
* Never twist your back while lifting the object; this could leave you with serious spinal injuries.
* Keep your eyes up - this way your back would be in a good position to lift something up.

Remember these safe and unsafe moves to keep your back in a good condition.