How to Lift With a Back Support

While back support belts can provide some relief from back pain and help you maintain the proper posture when lifting, wearing a back support alone cannot protect you from an injury due to improper lifting. You need to make sure that you follow basic safe lifting procedures even if you always wear a support belt. The belt should be properly fitted and properly worn.

Instructions

• 1

  Use a belt that is the proper size and make sure that you are wearing it correctly. There is often a back center indication so you know where the back support should rest. If there are tightening belts on the front and the sides, secure the front tie first and then tighten the sides. The belt should be secure but comfortable.

• 2

  Position your body properly to lift the load. One foot should be placed next to the load and one foot just behind it. Get your body as close to the load as possible, bending your knees to do so.

• 3

  Grasp the load with both hands and try to get the weight of the load balanced on your palms rather than just your fingers.

• 4

  Keep your head up, your back straight, and your arms close to your body as you lift from the legs to push the load upwards. Move smoothly and slowly, avoiding any jerking motions or turns.