Most of us forget the importance of our backs for the enjoyment of a normal, happy and successful life. However, the back contains one of the most critical muscle groups in the body, as well as the spinal cord and associated vertebrae and disks.  Back injuries are cumulative: a lot of small injuries lead up to a big one. Therefore, it is important to remember the key elements of proper lifting.

Making the Lift:

• Center the load between your legs or shoulders.
• Always bend with your legs.
• Keep your back straight.
• Lift with your legs (you can feel your leg muscles doing the work).
• Keep the load close to your body (hug the object you are lifting).