The first rule of safe lifting is to:

• A. Keep your back in a straight, vertical position.
• B. Lift with your arms and back primarily.
• C. Bend at the waist and twist to see the load.
• D. Rush the move to save time.

Answer: (A)

Keeping the back in a straight, neutral alignment during lifting protects the spine and lets the leg muscles do most of the work. When your spine stays neutral, the load stays close to your body, which minimizes the lever arm and the stress on the lower back. You set yourself up by getting close to the load, planning the lift, and then bending at the hips and knees rather than at the waist. Avoid twisting your torso; turn your whole body instead. Lifting with the arms and back places excessive strain on the spine, and rushing can lead to loss of form and injury. This approach keeps you and the patient safer during moves.