If you’ve decided to move by yourself, you should consider the possibility of you or anyone helping you move, getting injured. Injuries are very common, mainly because most people do not spend their days lifting heavy furniture. It is one thing to move a few items here and there, but it’s another thing to move an entire household of furniture, mattresses, appliances, boxes and other items from one house to another.
Unless you are an experienced mover, moving heavy furniture on your own can lead to a back, or other injuries. If you are determined to tackle this job on your own, be sure to apply proper lifting techniques in order to reduce any strain on your back.
Here are 3 safe lifting techniques that should always be applied when moving heavy or awkwardly shaped items:
- Keep Your Back Straight
Never bend down from the waist to pick up an item. That will put a lot of strain on your spine. Instead, keep your back straight and squat down and bend your knees. Remember not to bend forward and keep your back as straight as possible. Remember that the further an object is from your centre of gravity; the more strength is required to hold the object up. Thus, putting additional strain on your lower back. Keep the item as close to your body as possible when lifting.
- Bend Your Knees and Hips
Always bend from your hips and bend your knees when lifting a heavy item. Do not lock your legs in a straight position. When lifting, use your core and leg muscles to do majority of the lifting. If you need to turn direction, don’t twist but pivot with your feet instead. Remember to keep your feet shoulder width apart.
- Never Lift Above Your Shoulder Level
Good posture helps keep your upper back straight. Be sure to look straight ahead with your chest out and your shoulders back. Keep items below shoulder level and do not try lifting heavy items over your head.
- Leave it to the Professionals
The easiest way of all to avoid injuries is to hire a professional moving company like Armando Movers! Our trained staff know how to move things safely. They will do all the heavy lifting so you don’t have too!