From Sharp Health News, a publication of Sharp HealthCare
If you have back pain, you’re not alone. Roughly 80% of adults have experienced low back pain at some point in their lives.
While certain risk factors such as age, occupation, fitness level and weight can play a role in back pain, poor lifting techniques increase the risk of injury for everyone, regardless of age or physical condition.
Try these tips to reduce your risk:
- Do not lift more weight than you are able.
- Keep the object you are lifting close to your body.
- Avoid stooping with the low back — keep your back upright and lift with your knees.
- Avoid twisting and turning while lifting.
- Avoid extensive repetitive lifting.
- Wear appropriate non-slip shoes to avoid slips and falls while lifting.
Everyone — young or old — is wise to pay careful attention to their body mechanics whenever they are lifting.
The VEBA Resource Center offers Low Back Care and Pain Prevention Classes. This class will focus on exercises that are designed to strengthen your core, improve your posture and help you stay pain free. Perfect for all levels. Check out our calendar to sign up for an upcoming class.
