Body Mechanics

Summary

In this essential video, physical therapist Markk Maik from Huntsville Hospital emphasizes the importance of proper body mechanics to prevent injuries at work and home. He offers practical tips for safe lifting and moving, such as positioning your body close to objects, using your legs instead of your back, and pivoting your feet instead of twisting your waist. Markk also highlights the significance of ergonomic desk setup and the need for regular stretching to alleviate tension. For more information on body mechanics, viewers are encouraged to contact the employee health department.

Takeaways

• 😀 Assess the object before lifting: Determine if it's too big or heavy, and consider lightening the load.
• 🤝 Don't hesitate to ask for help if needed when lifting heavy objects.
• 🏋️‍♂️ Position your body close to the object when lifting to maintain stability.
• 🦵 Always use your legs, not your back, to lift objects properly.
• 📦 When placing items on high shelves, get as close to the shelf as possible to avoid reaching.
• 🏌️‍♂️ For picking up light objects, use a golfer's lift to counterbalance and reduce strain on your back.
• 🚶‍♂️ Pivot your body by moving your feet when moving objects to avoid twisting at your waist.
• ➡️ Push objects instead of pulling them to maintain better control and reduce injury risk.
• 🪑 Use an adjustable chair at your desk to keep your feet flat on the floor and ensure lower back support.
• 🧘‍♂️ Stretch periodically throughout the day to relieve tension and improve flexibility.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the video?

The main purpose of the video is to educate viewers on proper body mechanics to prevent injuries when lifting or moving objects at work and at home.

What should you do before lifting an object?

Before lifting an object, you should stop and think if the object is too big or heavy for you, consider removing some contents to make it lighter, and ask for help if needed.

How should you position your body when lifting an object?

Position your body as close to the object as possible and straddle your legs, using your legs to lift rather than your back.

What technique can you use to lift light objects from the floor?

To lift light objects from the floor, use a golfer's lift, placing one hand on a secure structure, bending forward, and allowing one leg to lift off the floor for counterbalance.

What is the recommended way to move an object?

When moving an object, pivot your body by moving your feet instead of twisting at your waist, and always push instead of pulling when possible.

What adjustments should you make to your desk chair to prevent injuries?

Ensure your chair is adjustable so that your feet are flat on the floor, your elbows and knees are bent at about 90 to 100 degrees, and your forearms and thighs are parallel to the ground.

How can you support your lower back while sitting?

Make sure your chair provides lower back support to help maintain proper posture.

What stretches can you do to relieve tension throughout the day?

You can alternate squeezing your shoulder blades together, rolling your shoulders forward and backward, and performing chin tucks to stretch the muscles in the back of your neck.

What should you do to stretch your lower back when standing?

Take a minute to stretch your lower back by performing simple back stretches that help alleviate tension.

Where can viewers learn more about proper body mechanics?

Viewers can contact the employee health department to learn more about proper body mechanics.