Technique for Proper Lifting

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than a million workers suffer back injuries each year, and they account for one out of every five workplace injuries or illnesses.

Incorrect Lifting

Many back injuries, both on the job and in the home, are the result of improper lifting. Remember to practice proper lifting technique to prevent serious injury to your back.

  1. Plan ahead – know the weight of the object and where you are going; clear the path you will be using.

  2. Make sure you are on firm footing; keep your feet spread apart, one foot slightly ahead of the other.

  3. Squat down - bend at the knees, keeping your back straight and your head level, to pick up the object.

  4. Avoid jerky movements; lift smoothly as you straighten your legs.

  5. Keep the object close to your body -holding it away from you places stress on your back.

  6. Turn with your feet instead of twisting your body at the waist.

  7. Never bend at the waist to pick up an object!

Keep in mind that if an object is particularly heavy, you may need a hand truck, a dolly, or another person to assist you with moving it. Don’t compromise your safety or your back to lift any object.

Dr. Joseph  Asks some important questions of interest to Cincinnati residents - Chiropractor Cincinnati Dr. Joseph Asks...

Why does chiropractic work?
Chiropractic works because your nervous system, consisting of your brain, spinal cord and all the nerves of your body, controls and regulates every cell, tissue, organ and system of your body. A chiropractor locates and reduces areas of nervous system compromise (usually along the spine) so your capacity to heal is restored. Chiropractic works by helping your body work as it was designed.
Where do most Cincinnati residents get their first subluxation?
Being born in a hospital is a common source of subluxation. Trauma from forceps delivery has been replaced with drugs, vacuum extraction, Cesarean section and births that are "scheduled" to fit the workweek routines of Ob-Gyns. That's why we recommend a chiropractic checkup for every Cincinnati newborn.