We know how important it is to protect our back when lifting heavy objects, but it is just as easy to injure your shoulders through poor lifting techniques.
Shoulder injuries in the workplace are one of the most common including conditions such as rotator cuff injury and shoulder impingement.
"Injuries can occur not only by putting too much weight on the joints around your shoulders but also by underestimating the weight of objects above head height and pulling them down on yourself. You must always stop and assess the risk of injury before you try to lift an object higher than your shoulders," said Pilbara Iron manual handling specialist Elaine Kennedy.
Reaching above shoulder level can damage your back causing recurring pain and discomfort. Twisting and over-reaching to pick up an object can be equally as harmful and should be avoided.
To protect your shoulders, ensure you are lifting at chest height and if this is not possible, assess the risk and all alternatives such as using mechanical equipment or help from another person.
Using the correct technique is hardly an inconvenience compared to a debilitating shoulder injury resulting in time of work and play.
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