Avoid Back Strain

Proper body mechanics help you avoid back strain.

Lifting

• Bend with your knees, not your back.
• Lift with your legs.
• Lift object only chest-high.
• Be sure of footing.

Standing and Walking

• Stand with one foot up;change position often.
• Stand with your back’s three natural curves in their normal, balanced alignment.
• Walk with head high, chin tucked in, toes straight ahead.
• Wear comfortable, low-heeled shoes.

Driving

• Move car seat forward to keep knees level with hips.
• Sit straight, drive with both hands on wheel
• Support lower back with lumbar support or rolled-up towel behind you back.

Sitting

• Sit in chair low enough to place both feet flat on the floor with knees level with hips.
• Sit firmly against back of chair.
• Support lower back with lumbar support or rolled up towel.

Sleeping

• Sleep on a firm mattress.
• Sleep on your side with knees bent and pillow between your legs, or on your back with a pillow under your knees.