Before you decide to do your own move, you should consider the possibility of you or the friends helping you move getting injured. The reason for this is that most people do not spend their days lifting heavy furniture. It is one thing to move a few items but it is quite another thing to move an entire household of furniture, mattresses, appliances, boxes and other assorted items from one house to another.
Unless you are an experienced mover, doing this on your own can lead to a back, or other, injury that may result in time off work, money spent on physiotherapy or general pain and inconvenience. If at all possible, this is a job best left to the professionals like Premiere Van Lines.
However, if you are determined to tackle this job on your own, be sure to apply proper lifting techniques in order to reduce back strain that can result in either short or long term injury or pain. Here are 3 safe lifting techniques that should always be used when moving heavy or awkward items:
Safe Lifting Techniques
1. Keep Your Back Straight
Never bend down from the waist to pick up an item (or your end of an item of furniture). Doing this puts a lot of strain on your spine. Instead keep your back straight and squat down by bending at the hips and knees. Do not bend forward. Keep your back as straight as possible and keep the item you are lifting close to your body. Remember that the further an object is from your centre of gravity, the more force is required to hold the object up; this puts additional strain on your lower back.
2. Bend Your Hips and Knees
Always bend from your hips and bend your knees when lifting a heavy item. Do not lock your legs in a straight position. As you come squat position keep your core muscles tight and use your leg muscles. Don’t twist when lifting instead pivot with your feet to turn direction. Keep your feet in a wide stance when upright.
3. Never Lift Above Shoulder Level
Always use good posture by looking straight ahead with your chest out and your shoulders back, this helps keep your upper back straight. Remember to keep items below shoulder level. Do not try lifting heavy items over your head.
Another recommendation is to do some basic warmup exercises before beginning to move furniture and other heavy items. A few low back rotation stretches and hamstring stretches will help prepare your body for the task ahead.
For more information about moving and a free no obligation cost estimate contact your local Premiere Van Lines office.