Any job that involves stressful or heavy lifting or awkward postures increases the risk for a back injury. Back injuries can be prevented while working by improving position. If there is a twist of the body, working overhead, bending over, kneeling or squatting, these increase the risk of back injury. Here are a few tips that can help prevent back injuries and reduce low back pain when lifting heavy objects.

When lifting an object, get as close as possible to the object. This lessens strain on the lower back. Maintain your curves by being in an upright position while squatting to pick up any object. The spine must always be in the best alignment or neutral posture when lifting. Ensure that neutral spine is back and the spinal column is in its natural position.

When lifting, strengthen stomach muscles that in turn support the spine and keep breathing - do not hold breath. Make use of your leg muscles when lifting, spare your low back. Always turn with the feet when lifting and not the back. The back was not designed with the mechanism to twist. When lifting, bend the knees, squatting in front of the object to reach it and not bending over an object to be lifted. The object should be lifted carefully and slowly making use of the leg and arm muscles.