Spinal Cord and Back Safety Tips from Security Specialists

Spinal cord injuries and lower back pain are leading causes of job-related disability and missed work in the United States. In fact, Americans spend more than $50 billion per year in an effort to make back pain go away. While low-back pain typically affects people around the ages of 30 to 50, most people suffer work-related back pain at one time or another. However, you can reduce your odds of getting a spinal cord injury by following these ten safety tips:

1. Always Lift using your leg muscles, NOT your back.
2. When lifting, make sure you bend at your knees, NOT at your waist.
3. Stand as close to the object you’re lifting as possible.
4. If you have to lift something that is too heavy, get help.
5. Contract your abdominal muscles as you lift the object up or lower it down. If frequent lifting of objects is a regular part of your job, consider investing in a support brace.
6. If you sit for long periods at your job, take frequent breaks to stretch, relax and rest your back.
7. Always support your lower back when sitting. Use a rolled towel, small pillow or a specially designed seat support if your office chair lacks sufficient support.
8. Always sit with good form. Align your ears with your shoulders and keep your chin parallel to the floor. Avoid leaning to one side and avoid overstuffed furniture that does not offer adequate support. When you lean forward at your desk, bend forward at the hips.
9. Invest in a quality swivel chair so that you can work without twisting your back and place your computer close to you to further minimize twisting and turning. Make sure your chair has an adjustable seat, neck rest and arm rests.
10. Remember to Exercise! – Exercise can improve your overall posture while strengthening your back and increasing your flexibility. Consider combining aerobic activity such as walking, swimming or bicycling with strength training and stretching. It’s also a good idea to do a few stretches and take a quick ten-minute walk at work, especially after prolonged sitting.

We at Security Specialists Want You to Keep Your Spine Safe, Secure and Injury-Free!