Lifting
Original Editor - The Open Physio project
Top Contributors - Oladayo Babalola, Admin, Rachael Lowe, Lucinda hampton, Kim Jackson, Niha Mulla and WikiSysop
Introduction[edit | edit source]
Many lower back injuries come about as a result of poor lifting techniques, something that physiotherapists are uniquely placed to address. The following principles of safe lifting should be covered whenever you treat a patient with Lower back pain.
Principles of Safe Lifting[edit | edit source]
- Assess the immediate area and load to be lifted.
- Bend the knees to lower the body to the level of the load.
- Keep feet shoulder width apart to ensure a broad, stable base.
- Keep the back straight (though not necessarily erect).
- Use a firm, palmar grip.
- Keep the arms close to trunk.
- Keep the load / weight close to the Centre of gravity and within the Base of support.
- Point / pivot the feet in the direction of the movement. Never rotate the trunk while lifting.
- Lift using the strong muscles in the legs, rather than the postural muscles in the trunk.
- If the load is too heavy for one person, wait until you can get help.