Lifting can strain or even injure your back. Follow these tips to keep your back safe while you bend, lift, and carry.
Protect your back while lifting
Step 1
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Face the object.
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With your back straight, get down on 1 knee.
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If you can, tilt the object so 1 side lifts off the ground.
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Keep the object close to you.
Step 2
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Tighten your stomach muscles.
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Lift with your legs, arms, and buttocks, not your back.
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Don't twist.
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Lift the object to your knee.
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Grasp the object firmly.
Step 3
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Lift with your arms and legs, not your back.
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Move quickly to help make this easier.
To carry an object:
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Hold it close to your body.
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Bend your knees slightly as you walk. The heavier the object, the more you should bend your knees.
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Get help with heavy or unbalanced objects.
Online Medical Reviewer: Rahul Banerjee MD
Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Turley Jr PA-C
Online Medical Reviewer: Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN
Date Last Reviewed: 08/01/2023
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
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