Moving house or office? – Your guide to smarter lifting

Over the last few weekends I have been filling my time by packing boxes upon boxes. Im getting ready to move out to another apartment, yes very exciting and I can’t wait for the new place. However packing is not my strong point – I can only binge watch so much Marie Kondo on how to organise my house before the doming boxes get the better of me.

• Consider the size, shape and weight of the object- also consider the size of yourself be realistic, and get help if needed
• Assess where you’re going with the object – is there a clear space ahead and even ground to walk on.

• Move close as possible to the load you are about to lift, keep the object as close as you can to your body the whole duration on the lift.

• Maintain an even base of support. Bend down into a semi-squat position by bending at the knee joint, weight is into the heels. The bend should not come from the back at any point, you need to maintain a straight back the whole lift. This will ensure you are placing less demand on the spine and muscles running down the side of the spine.

Here is an example of incorrect lifting technique:

• Keeping your back straight and weight distributed evenly throughout the legs, push through the ground from the heels, come to standing  as you straighten the legs. Keep your head up and the object close to the body.

• Avoid unnecessary twisting, bending and reaching outside the body.
• Make sure any change of direction you do with the whole body not the back. Avoid sudden and jerking movements.