When lifting heavy objects, which method is recommended to prevent injury?

Lifting heavy objects requires careful attention to body mechanics to avoid injury, particularly to the back. The recommended method involves keeping the back straight and lifting with your knees, which is important for several reasons.

When you keep your back straight, it helps maintain the natural curvature of the spine, minimizing the risk of strain. Bending at the knees allows you to use the large, strong muscles in your legs rather than the smaller muscles in your back. This technique distributes the weight more evenly and reduces the load on the spine, significantly lowering the risk of acute injury or long-term discomfort.

Utilizing proper lifting techniques is crucial in both daily activities and in the workplace for physical labor, as improper methods can lead to musculoskeletal injuries, chronic pain, and other complications. Therefore, retaining a neutral spine and engaging the leg muscles during lifting is the safest approach.