Lifting Injuries Triggers Back Pain

Our backs are amazing systems. They provide balance, motion range, flexibility, and strength. The neck and spine give so much in so many different ways. Skocik Chiropractic in Harrisburg, PA, and elsewhere take their backs for granted until the day something goes wrong. And that usually happens when straining the back, if not in an accident, extreme work stress, or trauma.

Simplicity of a Lifting Injury

The problem with a neck or back injury from lifting is that it’s usually not expected. We’ve been trusting our spine to do its job for so long that we don't see it coming when it has a moment of weakness. Unfortunately, back lifting injuries are usually the strain that pushes the spine a bit too far, and then the pain and inability to move to begin. More than likely, the condition has already been developing over time. Soft tissue and muscles run up and down the back in striations, but when weakened, it’s frequently covered with soreness or strain. A heavy lift pushes the back, often at a bad angle, to work extremely hard with sudden pressure to perform. Something will pull or tear if the weakness is too much or a lot, and a lifting injury occurs. It's immediately felt with lower back pain and loss of mobility.

Lifting Wrong Could be Costly

Many back injuries happen from simply lifting wrong. Regarding work ergonomics, the spine can handle the pressure of pushing straight up far better than leaning over or in a twist. That’s because the spine is already carrying the upper body's weight at a bad angle and working hard to keep things in place versus falling over. However, when a heavy weight is added to the strain, it’s more than the spine can handle. This can lead to stress, muscle pulls, tears, and even disc slippage or disc hernias. The latter is extremely painful regarding lower back pain and may not heal independently. In the worst-case scenario, surgery may be necessary. This is why, from a work ergonomics perspective, it's always better to lift with the knees straight up versus doing so bent over.

Harrisburg Help for Injured Backs

If you've pulled or twisted your neck or spine from lifting, Skocik Chiropractic in Harrisburg, PA, can help. Call us at (717) 540-8448 to schedule an appointment and end your lower back pain!