Lifting
The most important aspect of lifting is to keep your spine upright by hinging from the hips and knees. Even if the object is
awkwardly placed so that it is not directly in front of you the key is to keep your chest lifted in front while maintaining
your lumbar spine’s natural forward curve. Two other key points which will save you from irritating your back are (1) to avoid
lifting during the first half hour of the day, and (2) to avoid lifting immediately after sitting for a prolonged period (i.e.
over 40 min) (Figs. 8A and B).
Figure 8 Lifting: (A)incorrect and (B)correct.
PROGRESSIVE HEALTH & WELLNESS BLOG: THE IMPORTANCE OF MICRO-BREAKS & ERGONOMICS : Over time, the human body has adapted very well to the task of hunting for and gathering food. It performs and feels its best when it is in motion during the day, and resting at night. Sitting all day, on the other hand, puts an enormous strain on the sspine and its supporting tendons, ligaments, muscles, and fascia. If you are sitting at a desk and/or computer for more than 1 hour on a regular basis, then you are what we call an “industrial athlete”. For you, proper micro-breaks and ergonomics (discussed in a separate blog) are essential to prevent neck pain, back pain, and headaches, as well as to allow your body to get the best results from your chiropractic care. Ideally, micro-breaks should be performed before you start to feel stiff or sore at your worksite. For most people, this means taking a 20-30 second micro-break every 20-30 minutes of prolonged sitting. Of course, longer breaks of 1-5 minutes should also be taken every 2-3 hours, or as needed. Any of the exercises that Drs. Ezgur or DiDomenico prescribe for you can be used as a micro-break. One of the most effective micro-break exercises is Brugger’s Relief Position, as taught in our offices. Read More |