Lifting 101

Lift - (verb) to move upward from the ground

(the following post is about lifting objects, not weights -- sorry, this won't help you get your swell on)

Sounds simple enough, but lifting heavy objects without injury is not so easy. Here are a few tips to make ensure you're able to lift that, say, TV stand and not being lifted to the hospital.

• Plan - Before you lift, make sure there is a clear path to where you are going to put your object. Make sure that if you are lifting with someone else, they know where you plan to go as well.
• Accessorize - Wearing a back brace can help when lifting heavy objects by supporting the spine and promoting proper posture. To purchase a brace, visit DocOrtho.
• Keep it close - You're body will be more stable if you lift an object with your limbs closer to your body. Balance is key. Be sure to keep your feet shoulder width apart to maintain a solid base for the lift.
• Bend at the knee, lift with the leg - Start the lift by bending at the knee with a straight back - this stance is key for preventing back injury. With the object in a firm grip, lift by extending your legs upward.

• The core is core - Use the muscles of your core (your abs) to support the back during the lift.
• Know when to say no - If you can't lift it, don't. Sometimes you need help and you will be much better off if you get some. If you don't ask for help and hurt yourself, you will just end up asking for it later when you pull your back out.
  

I know IKEA, you warned me...

If you have injured yourself, check out About.com: Orthopedics, or visit Dr. Nadelberg, chiropractor extraordinaire.

Thanks to my new TV stand and my stubborn disposition for causing the injury that inspired this post.