Body

 by: Michael Colucci

Many people don't realize the importance of lifting objects properly in order to avoid hurting their backs. One of the leading causes of back injuries are due to people lifting heavy objects improperly. In this article I will go over the proper procedures for lifting heavy objects in order to avoid back pain.

Lifting things doesn't have to be hazardous, whether you're at home or at work. Many people put lots of stress on their backs on a regular basis, especially those who have jobs in warehouses or delivery companies. Even those who don't spend lots of time lifting heavy objects can make their backs prone to injury over time even if they lift small objects if they do it improperly.

There are two primary mistakes that many people make when lifting objects. The first mistake is using the wrong muscles to lift up objects. You're supposed to use the muscles in your legs and buttocks instead of the muscles in your back.

It is always important to bend your knees when lifting an object off the floor. This gives your spine a level foundation and avoids putting too much stress on it. It is important to keep your upper body vertical when lifting instead of horizontal. Having your upper body horizontal will put a lot of stress on your lower back. This pressure could be hundreds of pounds, and eventually you'll suffer a slipped disc or sprain.

The second mistake people often make is lifting an object too far from their bodies. It is important to be as close as possible to whatever you're lifting. By holding the object close to you, the amount of pressure exerted on your spine is reduced.

You want to hold the object by its center and keep it eight inches away from you when you lift. Keep your upper body vertical and use the muscles in your knees and buttocks in order to lift it. By doing this you avoid damaging you back. You also want to avoid twisting your upper body when you left objects as this can add pressure to your spine as well.

Lifting objects properly in order to avoid back pain is important. If you lift a ten pound object at arms length, you are putting at least one hundred and fifty pounds of pressure on your lower back. If you hold an eighty eight pound object at arms length, a massive seven hundred pounds is being exerted on your back.