6 Common Moving Injuries

DixieMovingBlog

The moving process is complicated and can cause injuries. Some of these injuries are minor and will heal quickly. However, some moving accidents can cause severe injuries or even disability. Here are some common moving injuries.

1.  Back Injuries

Moving involves a lot of lifting and bending that exerts pressure on your back. This can cause a sprain or strain on the lower back. While the common injury is the tweaking of a back muscle, you can also have serious back injuries, such as herniated discs or a torn muscle. All these are painful and may require emergency surgery.

Here are some of the preventative measures you can take to avoid back injuries during a move:

  • Rely on moving tools, such as dollies and straps.
  • Use the right lifting techniques to prevent back strains.
  • Ask another person to help you carry a heavy item for better weight distribution.
  • Separate items into smaller parts and pack them properly before moving.

You should confirm if you can lift an item safely before attempting to lift it.

2. Broken Toes, Fingers, or Hands

Falling objects can cause broken toes, fingers, and hands, resulting in inconvenience and long-term pain. You can avoid these injuries by wearing closed shoes and thick gloves during the moving day. Another strategy is to have clear working paths between the house and the moving trucks to prevent obstructions.

Remember to communicate with the other movers around you to avoid colliding with people.

3. Sprained Ankles

A wrong step can cause foot and ankle injuries and problems. These injuries occur if you move quickly and carelessly as you move items. Remember to take your time and wear tennis shoes or work boots to prevent ankle injuries.

4. Knee Injuries

You overwork the joints in the knees more than any other joint in the body during the moving process. Whenever you lift a heavy box, most of your weight is on the knees. You can also hit your knees on random objects while you move around.

Kneepads and braces can provide extra support to prevent the knees from banging into one another. Another great tool is furniture sliders which allow you to move furniture and other large objects across the floor without carrying them.

5. Scrapes and Cuts

Sharp objects such as knives can cause scrapes and cuts. You can also experience these injuries if you are moving heavy furniture with sharp edges. The best way to prevent these injuries is to exercise caution when packing sharp objects, such as glassware.

Here are other preventative measures you can take:

  • Buy some bandages and antiseptics before the moving day.
  • Cover any exposed skin to prevent direct injuries.
  • Wear thick clothing such as jeans to prevent the penetration of sharp objects.

You can avoid cuts and scrapes by exercising caution and asking for help if you are in doubt.

6.  Muscle Injuries

When lifting or packing large objects, you may make specific movements that your body is not used to. The result will be muscle injuries, such as painful tears or strains.

You can take many measures to prevent muscle injuries during moving. Before the moving date, do some warming up and dynamic stretching to prepare the body for strenuous activity. Also, take several breaks during the move to allow your body to rest. Another common strategy is to begin with light work and then progressively make your way to the heaviest items.

Moving injuries are more likely to occur if you attempt to complete the moving process on your own. Dixie Moving & Storage, Inc., is a professional moving company with trained staff who can help prevent injuries and accidents. Contact us now for more information.