Packing up your life and moving to a different location is a big step in any person’s life. Any rapid life change involves some risks, so make sure to prepare yourself in advance. With that being said – moving is a lot riskier than people usually think. It is a challenging task that, if not done correctly, can result in significant harm. This is particularly true if you intend to relocate without the help of professionals. Taking care of yourself during this change is as essential as any other step in the relocation process. So it is important to first learn some fundamental safety tips on how to avoid injuring yourself when lifting and moving.
Preventive measures before lifting and moving to avoid injuries
There are many measures you may take before beginning your process of moving items. These precautions are even more crucial than the steps you must take while lifting and moving. Preparation is key when doing any sort of big operation, especially when it comes to avoiding injuries.
Have a game plan
If you intend to go through the moving process on your own, prepare a plan on how you will achieve this. Plan how you’ll organize your belongings and which kind of boxes you’ll need. Also, plan where you’ll park the vehicle you’ll be using to transport the items, and make sure to clear the pathway to the said vehicle.
Be mindful of how much you can carry safely
One of the most important things you can do to avoid injuring yourself when lifting and moving is not to carry items that are too heavy. Decluttering can be beneficial in many ways, but it is especially crucial when it comes to relocating. The fewer items you have to pack in boxes, the less likely you will lift boxes that are too heavy. Don’t overpack the boxes, and remember – it is always safer to take your time and make multiple trips. However, you might also want to look into renting a dolly that can make this moving process a lot easier.
Pack items properly
To avoid many different injuries that might occur during the moving process, make sure to pack everything properly. Put all the valuable and delicate items in secure boxes with lids and pack them properly so that they do not get scratched while carried. As for dangerous and sharp objects like knives, wrap them in bubble wrap. By doing so, you will prevent them from poking through your box and causing harm. Labeling the boxes is also a good idea.
Dress appropriately
Dressing for the occasion is quite important while moving. Wearing clothing that is too airy and loose is a no-no since it can get caught in furniture. To avoid serious harm, wear gloves and shoes that can take a beating, such as work shoes or, if possible, steel-toed shoes.
Prepare yourself
To prepare for all the heavy lifting and moving, you might want to stretch your body, drink enough water, eat nutritious food and get a good night’s sleep. This will improve your concentration and reduce the likelihood of an incident happening. Of course, you should always have a backup plan if things go south, so have your first aid kit handy.
What to do while lifting and moving to avoid injuries
When it comes to avoiding any potential injuries when moving, make sure to always prioritize your well-being. It is essential to stay healthy during the process. There are many things you can do to keep yourself in tip-top shape while moving. Remembering these tips in times of need may help you avoid a trip to the doctor and stay safe.
Do not attempt to lift more than what you are capable of
It is very easy to get caught up in wanting to complete the lifting and moving process as quickly as possible. However, you put yourself at risk by rushing through this step. You should know your body well enough to know how much you can carry. Do not push your limits and take your time. Choose wisely how many things and which things you can carry.
Follow all lifting guidelines
Properly positioning your body while lifting is vital. To avoid injuries, follow these safety tips:
- Before picking anything up, make sure your legs are apart enough; this will allow you to lift with your legs.
- Before carrying an object, try to lift it from waist height if possible.
- Lifting should be done while bending at the knees and keeping your spine in a neutral position. Avoid twisting your torso in any way, and instead, use your legs to move around.
- Always be aware of your surroundings and the potential danger the items around you might present.
Listen to your body
It is crucial to listen to your own body while lifting and moving. If you notice that the box you are carrying might be too heavy, put it down and decrease the load. Give yourself a break if you’re too tired to lift anything. Sit down for a while, sip some water, and let yourself take a breather. However, if you notice any sort of lingering pain, make sure to keep a close watch on it and to decrease the weight of things you carry.
In case of injury
No matter how attentive and prepared we are, accidents do happen. It can be quite challenging to avoid injuring yourself when lifting and moving. That’s why you should always keep in mind what you’ll do in the event that something goes wrong. If you have a crush injury, apply ice to it. In case of a mild cut, run water over it and keep pressure on the wound. With any sort of injury, get professional help if the pain persists and gets worse. However, if the pain is severe, get medical attention right away. It is a good idea to have a friend or family member who can take you to the doctor. However, if you cannot obtain such assistance, try to distract yourself from pain, and use your first aid kit properly before help arrives.
Final Words
Make sure to follow all these safety guidelines to avoid injuring yourself when lifting and moving. In the end, the most important thing is to stay within your body’s limits and try not to overexert yourself. If you really need to move something heavy, calling a few friends or hiring professional movers is always the best choice. Good luck!
Thank you!
Medical Disclaimer: All the content available on the website is just for informational purposes. It’s not a substitute for any Professional advice. Don’t take it personally. As a medical student, I’m just trying to use my information through my content, and please keep in mind it’s not written by a professional doctor. Use the data just for educational purposes.
Having completed my Bachelor’s degree in medicine and currently pursuing a house job at a well reputed hospital in California, I decided to utilize my spare time in sharing knowledge with others through my blog. Apart from my time spent in the medical field, I love to read fiction novels and go on long drives.