Patient Information Resources


Spine Institute
Glendale Adventist Medical Center
1500 E. Chevy Chase Drive, Suite 401B
Glendale, CA 91206
Ph: (818) 863-4444






Spine - Cervical
Spine - General
Spine - Lumbar
Spine - Thoracic

View Web RX

« Back

Am I more likely to hurt my back while lifting if the weight shifts or if it’s a sudden, unexpected load?

A recent study from the Netherlands reviews previous reports on back injuries from lifting unexpected weights. They go on to complete their own study of loads that shift during lifting. So far, there’s no proof that lifting an unexpectedly heavy load is linked to back injuries. Lifting a load that shifts can increase the risk for injury. The reason for this is within the muscles, not the spine. While lifting a load that shifts, the muscles may not respond quickly enough. This decreases the overall muscle force. But uneven muscle contraction (more muscle contraction on one side compared to the other) causes the vertebrae to rotate or twist. Rotation combined with increased pressure through the spine may injure ligaments or the disc.

References:

« Back





*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.


All content provided by eORTHOPOD® is a registered trademark of Mosaic Medical Group, L.L.C.. Content is the sole property of Mosaic Medical Group, LLC and used herein by permission.