Factors Associated with Back Injuries
Reaching while lifting is common when loading/unloading pickup trucks. Trucks can be equipped with small mechanical lifts or powered gates.
Sometimes conveyors are used to transport supplies or other items, and reaching and twisting while lifting is often involved. Mechanical lifts can also be positioned over conveyors that are used for this purpose.
Back disorders result from exceeding the capability of the muscles, tendons, or discs, or the cumulative effect of several contributors, including:
- reaching while lifting
- poor posture - how one sits or stands
- stressful living and working activities - staying in one position too long
- bad body mechanics - how one lifts, pushes, pulls, or carries objects
- poor physical condition - losing the strength and endurance to perform physical tasks without strain
- poor design of job or workstation
- repetitive lifting of awkward items or equipment
If you are overweight, and especially if you have developed a pot belly, the chances for chronic back pain are greater. The extra weight throws your body out of alignment and increases the burden on your back. Infrequent exercise is a major factor, too. A sudden strain on generally unused back muscles often leads to trouble. Watching your weight by having a proper diet and exercise are both sensible ways to help avoid back problems.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
1-3. One of several factors contributing to back disorders is _____.
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