More about low back pain
The price of carelessness is back pain that can range from a few days' aches to the constant pain of a herniated disk. The preventive measure is simple: learn how to use your back sensibly.
Before focusing on the right way to lift, review the following common lifting mistakes that easily lead to a back injury:
- Allowing the back to curve forward while you grasp an object, then lifting by straightening the back
- Bending at the hips but keeping the legs straight while grasping and lifting
- Twisting the back while lifting or holding, usually by turning the shoulders, but not the hips
- Holding an object away from the body
- Lifting a heavy object (or child) above shoulder level
- Attempting to lift an object that's too heavy or awkward for one person to safely lift
- Underestimating the need to be careful when lifting a light object
Test Your Knowledge
I only need to be careful about body mechanics when I'm lifting something that's heavy or awkward.
- This answer Incorrect
Regardless of the weight of an object, careful lifting is important. You can injure your back simply by turning the wrong way while lifting a light object.
- This answer is Correct
Regardless of the weight of an object, careful lifting is important. You can injure your back simply by turning the wrong way while lifting a light object.
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Why is it important to be careful about lifting?
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Back problems: Proper lifting
Last Updated: February 6, 2008 