1. How to Prevent Injury and Maintain Back Health
Body Mechanics
How to Prevent Injury and Maintain Back Health

2. The Back 33 Vertebrae Spinal Cord Spinal Nerves Muscles-
Back muscles should never be used to lift. THEY ARE WEAK MUSCLES

3. Common Problems Strain/Fatigue Vertebral Fracture Herniated Disk
Disease

4. Causes of Pathology
Poor Posture
Lack of Exercise
Excess Weight

5. Safe Lifting Feet width of shoulders Broad base of support
(8-12inches apart)
Stand close to object
Squat down
Use the strongest muscles of your legs
Hold object close to body

6. Special Rules When lifting overhead: use ladder, not chair or box
Pivot with whole body, not just waist area
Keep your back straight
Use weight of your body to push or pull an object
Keep in mind that your upper body is part of the “load” when bending over