Moving is hard work, often requiring us to complete strenuous motions and lift heavy objects. Improper form and excess strain can lead to injuries, including pinched nerves and herniated discs that require rehabilitation. It's important to protect your back as much as possible during your move to minimize strain and keep your spine healthy. Here's what you should know.

How to Reduce Back Injury During a Move

1. Use the Correct Lifting Technique

Bending forward to pick something up from a standing position puts stress on your spine, but you can protect your back by using the proper form. To do so, try kneeling or squatting close to the object, grasping it, then standing while keeping your back straight as you move to an upright position. This utilizes your lower body, letting the strong muscles of your legs bear the weight, like doing squats at the gym. 

2. Get a Hand Truck 

Investing in or renting a dolly or moving cart can save you from unnecessary back pain or injury. Since you can stack multiple boxes on the platform and wheel them all at once instead of making multiple trips, you'll save time and energy. Just be sure to stack the heaviest items on the bottom. Moving large, cumbersome furniture pieces and appliances is much easier with a dolly, as it supports most of the weight and helps you balance awkward or extremely heavy items. 

3. Keep Boxes Light

Although it may seem tempting to use the largest boxes and fill them, they should typically not exceed 50 pounds or whatever weight you can comfortably lift. Packing lighter boxes ensures the loads are manageable, prevents early fatigue, and minimizes your chance of strain or serious injury. You can accomplish this by choosing smaller boxes for heavier items, such as books, so they are filled without being over the weight limit. Then, opt for large boxes for less dense items, such as bed sheets or pillows. Following these guidelines will help reduce your chances of needing back rehabilitation after your move.

If you have a back injury from moving, turn to Broeg Chiropractic & Nutrition Center in Florence, KY. Their family-owned and -operated office provides exceptional, personalized chiropractic care, nutrition counseling, and sports rehabilitation. Visit the website for a complete list of services, or call (859)-525-2020 to schedule a consultation.