LIFTING

Things to look for (be aware of):

Preventing a back injury is much easier than repairing one. Because your back is critically important to your ability to walk, sit, stand, and run, it's important to take care of it. Most back pain arises from using your back improperly, so learning a few basic rules about lifting, posture and proper exercise can help keep your back in good shape.

• Back pain is second only to the common cold on the list of reason’s Americans go to the doctor.
• Across the country in 1999, more than 420,000 people missed work because of back injury.
• Four out of five adults in America will suffer from a back pain at some stage in their lives.

REMEDIES

• Assess the load that you have to lift.
• If you need help go and get someone.
• Squat down next to object (bending at the knees).
• Get as close as possible to the object.
• Grasp the object and get it as close to your body as possible.
• Lift up with your knees (DO NOT bend at the waist) and try to keep a natural curve in your back. DO NOT lift and twist, try to rotate your body using your feet.
• Set your load down correctly - by using the above lifting procedures in a reverse order.
• Maintain good posture and lose excess weight.