A lifting tip for our parents with kids under 5. Did you know the level of load when NSW WorkCover injuries are reported to occur with a seated lift? Anything above 4.5kg! Translate that to the average weight of a 2 year old child who we often lift onto our laps when we are seated. The risk of hurting your back when lifting is relative to many factors including how much bending and lifting you have done lately; how much or little exercise; and your level of stress. If we can advise one thing to reduce the chance of back injury it relates to not lifting from the side in a seated position. This creates a twist or rotation force whilst lifting a load in a bent back (seated) position and has much greater forces on the lower back. Lifting children and low back pain are commonly associated but can be managed better with good movement habits.
