Back pain is one of the most common medical problems in the US. It affects 80% of all Americans at some time in their lives.  While pain or discomfort may be felt anywhere in your back, the most common area affected is the low back which supports most of your body's weight.

Back pain is often times not the result of a single event.  It is generally the result of multiple stressors on the body from improperly standing, sitting or lifting for a long time.  Then suddenly, one simple movement such as bending to pick up the paper in the morning can cause pain.

Keeping your back healthy is important to enjoy every aspect of your life.  We all do some lifting whether it is part of our jobs or not. Protecting your back, when you do so is important to preserve your back health. 

Safe Lifting Technique:

1. Assess the load
2. Plan your lift
3. Face the load
4. Stagger your stance
5. Bend your knees and hips
6. Tighten your abdominal muscles
7. Keep your back straight
8. Head up
9. Lift with your leg muscles as you stand up
10. Keep the load close to you
11. Take your time

If you have any questions or would like to discuss your ergonomics needs, do not hesitate to contact the campus ergonomist (ergonomics@ucsf.edu)