Avoiding Back Injury During a Move

You find yourself in a rush to get those last two boxes taped and on the truck. In a moment of impatience, you reach down to lift the box and pull a muscle instead. Injury can happen at any time, especially when there's so much to do. But being prepared by knowing how to lift heavy objects will help in these situations.

Tips for Lifting Heavy Objects

During your move you may experience a few typical injuries like a stubbed toe or paper cut. The chance of back injury, however, can be minimized by lifting things properly. Here are a few tips:

• Position legs apart.
• Make sure your footing is secure.
• Get a good grip.
• Bend at the knees, not the waist.
• Lift with the legs, not the back.
• Keep the object you're lifting close to your body.
• Lift smoothly and slowly.
• Don't twist your body.
• Avoid lifting things over your head.
• When moving something, push rather than pull.
• If possible, use a dolly.