If you’re in a job requiring frequent lifting and are concerned about your back or knee health, here are seven essential tips to prevent injuries:
1. Position yourself close to the object with your feet shoulder-width apart. Avoid reaching forward, as it strains your spine.
2. Bend your knees, keep your back straight, and look ahead, similar to a squatting position, to lift with your legs rather than your back.
3. Keep items close to your body and lift them at waist height to minimize strain on your back. For instance, holding a bowling ball close to your chest feels lighter than with your arms extended.
4. Use equipment like hand trucks or lift with a partner to reduce stress on your body. Sharing the load makes lifting safer and easier.
5. Plan lifting tasks in advance for efficiency and to minimize strain. Avoid awkward maneuvers, similar to the importance demonstrated in the Friends episode where they struggle to move a couch upstairs.
6. Stretch during breaks to relieve muscle tension and listen to your body’s signals. Taking time to stretch can prevent buildup of strain throughout the day.
7. Engage both your legs and back muscles when lifting to distribute the workload and prevent fatigue in any single group.
Following these guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of workplace injuries. If you do experience an injury from lifting, reach out to us for assistance in your recovery.
