Lifting and manual handling injuries account for the vast majority of lower back injuries encountered with all of us, but especially with older people. There are however a few general tips that can help you to reduce the risk of injury. These are;
- It important before you lift an object to make sure its not beyond a safe working load.
- Squat down and test the weight by moving the object side to side.
- Keep the object close to you and your back in a neutral posture, push through and use your legs to stand.
- If you lift an object away from your body this will increase the weight of it.
Remember -
Lifting an item that is too heavy or a lighter item that is outstretch is one common way to injure your back. Give us a call if in doubt!