The importance of lifting objects with correct technique is often overlooked in our day to day lives. However it should be seriously considered in order to avoid hurting our backs. One of the leading causes of back injuries is due to people lifting heavy objects improperly.

Lifting is not uncommon and a regular occurrence in our lives. It need not to be hazardous if we take the right precautions, regardless of whether we are at home or at work.

Many people put unnecessary stress on their backs every day, especially those who have jobs that are physical in nature i.e. warehouse, factory or delivery type jobs. Even those who don't spend lots of time lifting heavy objects, can risk injuring their backs by lifting small objects improperly.

There are two primary mistakes that many people make when lifting objects. The first is using the wrong muscles to do the bulk of the work. When lifting you are supposed to use the muscles in your legs and buttocks predominantly, instead of the muscles in your back.

It is always important to bend your knees when lifting an object from the floor; and maintain good upright postures during the lift. This will allow your spine to have a good solid foundation to commence the lift and with a reduced level of physical stress placed upon the back during the lifting phase.

The second mistake people often make is lifting an object too far from their bodies. It is important to be as close as possible to whatever you're lifting. By holding the object close to you, the amount of pressure exerted on your spine is reduced.

You want to hold the object by its centre and keep it as close to your body as comfortable (this should be within 20cm from you when you lift). Keep your upper body upright with good posture. Use the muscles in your knees and buttocks in order to drive the lift. By lifting in this fashion you will reduce the risk of injuring your back.

Another important factor you need to consider is that you want to avoid twisting your upper body when lifting, as this can add tortional stress to your spine and increase the risk of suffering a spinal disc injury. By addressing the object directly in front of you (rather than off centre or side on) you can eliminate this tortional stress.

Implementing correct manual handling techniques such as those mentioned in this article, is an easy way to prevent or reduce the risk of an injury occurring. However these techniques are still taken for granted and overlooked on a daily basis. Be sure to consider the simple and easy to implement techniques discussed here when you next do some lifting and you will go a long way to maintaining a healthy back.

Be sure to consider the simple and easy to implement techniques discussed here when you next do some lifting and you will go a long way to maintaining a healthy back.