PrintImportant facts about back pain and injury for PSRPs:
• One out of every eight Americans will experience a painful back injury in his or her life-time.
• Chronic back pain is an indicator that a person is at risk for a serious back injury.
• The size and shape of an object being lifted are as important as the weight; awkward shapes can put stress on the back.
• Wear and tear on back muscles, discs, tendons and ligaments increase the risk of a back injury.
• Back belts do not protect an individual from back injury.
• Lifting children can increase your risk of back injury.
• There is no one "proper" way to lift to protect the back--in fact the straight back, bent-knee method may put more stress on your lower back.
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What you can do: Chronic or on-going back pain is the best predictor of the possibility of a back injury. Never ignore it. Consult your physician about ways that you can treat the pain and strengthen your back and abdominal muscles. If you must lift, try to remember the following tips: • It’s important to keep the load close to your body and to avoid turning or twisting movements once you have lifted the load. • Lift and carry with another person whenever possible; teamwork is important. The load should be equally distributed and held at the same level of the body. Finish the lift action at the same time. Teamwork is especially important when children are handled in special education settings. • Avoid overhead reaching and stretching to get an object; this type of movement is associated with many back injuries. • Place your feet close to a object to be lifted, 8 to 10 inches apart for good balance. • If you feel awkward or uncomfortable while lifting, you may be putting unnecessary strain on your back--if at all possible put the load down and go get help. |
