Avoiding Injuries When Carrying Large Items

Often at work or at home we may need to lift or move large items.  Sometimes large items are not very heavy, but they can still lead to injury.  Larger items may require hand and body positioning  that leaves the center of mass further from your body.  This distance of the center of mass increases leverage on your body and the force you need to hold the item.  This can lead to strain on your neck, back, shoulders, and arms similar to what you may experience when holding or carrying heavy items.  Common examples of large items may include large boxes or containers. 

There are steps that can be taken to minimize the effects of leverage on your body.  With large items, it is especially important to keep the item close to your body.  Avoid reaching away from your body.  As with heavy lifting, keep your back straight and lift with your legs.  Avoid bending when lifting as this increases pressure on your spine that multiplies with leverage.  Light items that you think are safe may produce much more force on your spine when they are further away from your body.

Chiropractic care can help treat back injuries resulting from lifting large items.  A chiropractic physician will be able to prescribe exercises to that are appropriate for your level of injury.

Contact your Chiropractor if you have back pain after lifting large items.