JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
On Joint Base Andrews, approximately 50 incidents of strained backs were reported to medical officials in the past year. Moving to a new home and spring cleaning accounted for much of the problems. Keep in mind the following procedures when lifting heavy items.
Correct lifting position
Lifting objects with a rounded back increases the pressure on the discs of the back to a higher level than if weight is held with the body in an upright position. Using incorrect lifting techniques when attempting to lift heavy objects may cause severe back pain or permanent muscle damage.
According to experts, in order to minimize the risks involved in lifting, you should always use correct lifting techniques such as:
- Before you lift a heavy object, make sure you have firm footing.
- To pick up an object that is lower than the level of your waist - keep your back straight and bend at your knees and hips.
- Do not bend forward at the waist with your knees straight.
- With a wide stance, stand close to the object you are trying to pick up. Keep your feet firm on the ground. Tighten your stomach muscles and lift the object using your leg muscles. Straighten your knees in a steady motion. Don't jerk the object up to your body.
- Stand completely upright without twisting. Always move your feet forward when lifting an object.