Health Tip: Preventing Back Injury

Lifting techniques to help protect the back

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(HealthDay News) - Lifting objects -- sometimes even light ones -- is a common cause of back strain and injury.

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To help prevent injury when lifting things, follow these techniques suggested by the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons:

• Don't try to lift or move heavy objects in a hurry. Take your time and plan what you need to do.
• Bend at the knees right in front of the object. Don't stand too far from it.
• Make sure your feet are positioned shoulder-width apart.
• With your stomach muscles tightened, lift with your leg muscles instead of with your back as you stand up.
• If the object seems too heavy, ask for help.

-- Diana Kohnle