As you know, back injuries can happen when doing a lot of lifting, especially if your muscles aren’t conditioned for the akward lifting positions and moving is no exception to the rule.
Practicing safe lifting techniques when moving can help protect your back and make the entire relocation much easier. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of how to lift a heavy object properly and end up hurting themselves. Here’s how you can move safely.
Because many people only move at most, every couple of years, the muscles that are used for lifting aren’t always properly exercised. As a result, moving heavy boxes can cause back problems. The best way to avoid such injury is to simply hire a moving company, but if that isn’t possible, knowing how to lift heavy boxes is essential.
If you have heavy items to lift, take your time. The best way to lift such an item is to position yourself as close as possible to the object with your feet shoulder-width apart. This stance allows you plenty of support. Bend at the knees and tighten your stomach muscles. Always lift with your leg muscles, not your back and arms.
There will always be objects that are just too heavy for you to move on your own. When you plan your move, always ask for help from friends and family if you’re not hiring a professional. You’ll also want to get a few items to make the day go by easier as well: a moving dolly, furniture straps, and ramps will help you move particularly heavy objects a lot more easily. If you hire a company to move you, these will be tools they will provide.
Jon Huser
