Lifting heavy objects puts you at risk for serious injury, especially to the arms, legs, and back. The first step to safe lifting is proper lifting technique. You should never bend at the waist to lift a heavy object, let your legs do all of the work. Squat down in front of the object by bending your knees, hold the object close to you, and push straight up with your legs, being careful to keep your back straight. This technique helps keep pressure off of your back, neck, and arms, because your legs bear the weight of the object. There are also several tools available to help you lift and carry heavy objects, such as carts, dollies, and other devices with wheels. It’s best to use these tools whenever you can, and when you do lift heavy objects, wear a back brace. Also, though it may seem simple, you should try to find a friend to help you lift heavy objects whenever possible. It’s also a good idea to contact your chiropractor about proper lifting techniques and how much weight is too much for you, especially if you’ve injured your back before. This could save you the pain and suffering of injuring your back again. A chiropractor can also treat your strained muscles with ice therapy to reduce swelling, and after a day or two, heat therapy to relax the muscle and allow it to heal. You may need to rest the affected area for several days or weeks to ensure that muscles and joints heal properly. Your chiropractor may suggest a brace to help immobilize the area, or a support bandage to reduce swelling and pressure on your injured muscles and joints.
©2006 Crossroads Mobile. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
