Before focusing on the right way to lift, review the following common lifting mistakes that easily lead to a back injury:

• Allowing the back to curve forward while you grasp an object, then lifting by straightening the back
• Bending at the hips but keeping the legs straight while grasping and lifting
• Twisting the back while lifting or holding, usually by turning the shoulders, but not the hips
• Holding an object away from the body
• Lifting a heavy object (or child) above shoulder level
• Attempting to lift an object that's too heavy or awkward for one person to safely lift
• Underestimating the need to be careful when lifting a light object

Back injury is best avoided at all costs. After the first time you have injured your back, it becomes more vulnerable to future injury. A back injury can alter your entire quality of life and possibly your livelihood, especially if it returns or becomes chronic.

Poor lifting technique can injure your back in various ways:

• Muscle or ligament strain-or tiny tears in the muscle or ligament-commonly results from a combination of poor body mechanics and too much of a burden on your back muscles.
• Spinal disc injury is often caused by forward bending of the spine and poor lifting technique. A spinal disc that is squeezed by the vertebrae above and below it can bulge or break open (herniated disc), causing back and leg pain and numbness (sciatica) and occasionally bowel and bladder problems.
• Vertebrae can become damaged during awkward lifting.

Follow these basic rules to protect your back while lifting:

• Keep a wide base of support . Your feet should be shoulder-width apart, with one foot slightly ahead of the other (karate stance).
• Squat down, bending at the hips and knees only. If necessary, put one knee to the floor and your other knee in front of you, bent at a right angle (half kneeling).
• Maintain good posture. Look straight ahead, and keep your back straight, your chest out, and your shoulders back. This helps keep your upper back straight while maintaining a slight arch in your lower back.
• Slowly lift by straightening your hips and knees (not your back). Keep your back straight, and don't twist as you lift.
• Hold the load as close to your body as possible, at the level of your belly button.
• Use your feet to change direction, taking small steps.
• Lead with your hips as you change direction. Keep your shoulders in line with your hips as you move.
• Set down your load carefully, squatting with the knees and hips only.

See a picture of proper lifting technique:

Keep in mind:

• Do not attempt to lift by bending forward. Bend your hips and knees to squat down to your load, keep it close to your body, and straighten your legs to lift.
• Never lift a heavy object above shoulder level.
• Avoid turning or twisting your body while lifting or holding a heavy object.

If you need information specific to your daily activities, you can consult with:

• A physical therapist.
• An occupational therapist.
• An ergonomic specialist.
• Your doctor.