Pack And Move Injury Free

Do-it-yourself packing and moving seems like a great way to save money, but then you start doing it and realize just how much hard work it actually is. Not surprisingly, a great many back injuries occur during DIY moving because people aren’t accustomed to that kind of work. In the following article, we explain how you can avoid problems through proper planning and technique.

Hiring a Professional

Moving and packing and is tough work. Not everyone is suited to it. Perform a thorough and honest assessment of the situation before making a final decision. Are you sure that a professional service is as expensive as you think it is? The truth is, a professional moving service can often pay for itself while saving you a great deal of stress and backache.

Use the Proper Equipment

Never rent a moving truck that doesn’t have a ramp. All rented moving trucks should include a dolly. Inspect yours before leaving the rental agency. If you’re using your own vehicles, consider dolly and ramp alternatives. A moving truck rental company can rent you a dolly and a ramp for the day. Keep in mind that most injuries occur because people are trying to compensate for a lack of proper equipment.

Prepare to Lift

Prior to lifting and carrying, stretch and warm-up. Do so just as you would for your daily workout. If you don’t work out, then it’s not a bad idea to start a small routine as soon as possible. Just having those muscles move on a daily basis will give you a better chance of getting through this sans injury. Also, wear a lifting belt. It can make a big difference. It may cost you $25, but you will get use out of it over the years.

Proper Lifting

Remember that proper All Lifting techniques make lifting easier. You need to think about your form before bending over to pick up the box. Ensure good balance. Bend at the knees. Keep the back straight but not vertical. Tuck in the chin. Grip the load with a palm grip. Use your body weight and then your legs to life the load. At no point, should you feel discomfort other than the natural taxation on your muscles.

Proper Carrying

Proper technique does not end once you have it up. You also have to carry it correctly. Carry the load close to the body. Keep the arms and elbows in at the sides. This is important because it uses your strongest muscles and it balances out the exertion. As you tire, your inclination will be to extend the arms, but that will actually make you tire faster.

Teamwork

If two people can carry something easily, then make use of that extra manpower. It may seem like a waste at first, but it will help you conserve energy in the long run. Team-oriented carrying still must use proper technique. Note that optimally team carriers should be about the same size. If one person is larger, it may be difficult to balance the load properly. When working as a team, one person serves as the lead. The other follows his or her lead or instructions. Walk out of step.