Heavy Lifting and Injuries (Wrists, The Back)

Do you regularly lift heavy objects? Whether for work, exercise, or household projects, lifting heavy objects raises the risk of lower back and wrist injuries among other.

It’s important to know the possibilities and how to avoid these injuries.

How Does Lifting Heavy Objects Cause Injury?

While back injuries can occur in any setting, many professions require that employees lift heavy objects. This often occurs without the necessary assistance/equipment required to do so safely. In these scenarios, the back is put in unnatural and overly strenuous positions when employees use poor lifting techniques with sudden, forceful movements. 

What Types of Injuries Can You Get from Lifting Heavy Objects?

While shoulder and elbow injuries can also arise from heavy lifting, the back is usually put into the most stressful and unsafe positions. If you think you may have an injury from lifting heavy objects and are looking for low back physical therapy in Manhattan, visit us at First Health Physical Therapy. Common injuries sustained while lifting heavy objects are listed below:

• • Wrist Injuries
  • Fractured Vertebrae
  • Disc Injuries
  • Pinched Nerves
  • Pulled Muscles
  • Spine Injuries
  • Shoulder Injuries
  • Elbow Injuries

Some of the more common types of wrist injuries and disorders are:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome, which happens when a nerve that runs from your forearm into your palm becomes squeezed at the wrist
• Ganglion cysts, which are noncancerous lumps or masses
• Gout, which is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in your joints
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis. It is caused by wear and tear of the joints.
• Sprains and strains, which are injuries to ligaments and injuries to muscles or tendons
• Tendinitis, inflammation of a tendon, usually due to overuse

How to Avoid Injury While Lifting Heavy Objects

For many people, lifting heavy objects is a necessary evil. It is something that they have to do to complete many functions. It is important to take the proper precautions when lifting heavy objects so that you can stay injury-free. Some safe lifting practices are described below:

• Avoid Lifting Heavy Objects Without Assistance – You should ask for help when lifting heavy objects. If you are at work, seek out a co-worker or use equipment such as a forklift or a hand truck, if accessible.
• Maintain Good Posture – Lift with your legs, not your back. You will decrease the likelihood of injury by placing minimal stress on your back. As much as possible, keep your chest up, staying in a powerful position where your legs can do the work. 
• Don’t Lift Heavy Objects too Often or for Too Long – If you constantly lift heavy objects, you’re more likely to make a mistake with your technique and posture. Only engage in heavy lifting when you have to and listen to your body. If you are feeling sore and are uncomfortable proceeding, don’t overdo it.

Contact First Health Physical Therapy in Manhattan!

If you’re suffering from an injury sustained while lifting heavy objects and are looking for low back physical therapy in Manhattan, contact First Health Physical Therapy today.