Moving Tips for People with Lower Back Pain

Did you know that lower back pain is one of the most common health complaints in New York City? Some people experience chronic lower back pain, which means they deal with aches and pain in their lower back on a daily or near-daily basis; other people experience lower back pain only intermittently. The pain comes and goes, and can be triggered by unusual movements, lifting heavy objects, or carrying weight up and down stairways or ramps.

Unusual movements, lifting heavy objects, and carrying weight up and down stairways or ramps is pretty much the job description of moving. If it’s time to change apartments or you’re moving to a new neighborhood, you need a plan that allows you to get the job done without triggering lower back pain.

Here are some elements to include in your moving plan:

Minimize the amount of heavy lifting you need to do:

Unless you’re really, really attached to your heaviest possessions, sell or donate them. Make sure the buyer or recipient is responsible for pick up! If there are heavy items you’re really attached to, look for ways to make them lighter. Removing all of the drawers from your dresser can reduce its weight by up to two-thirds. It is generally better to make more trips, carrying less weight, than to potentially strain your back by making fewer, heavier loads. The best way to reduce the amount of heavy lifting you need to do is hire professional movers.

Make sure you have clear, unobstructed routes from your home to the moving van:

When professional movers help New Yorkers relocate, they prioritize making sure they know exactly how they’re going to transport the homeowner’s possessions from the residence, through the building, and to the moving truck. Having a clear, unobstructed route is essential. Slips, trips, and falls are the leading cause of injury while moving. Do everything you can to prevent lower back strain by making sure you don’t have to step over anything or maneuver around obstacles while you’re carrying heavy moving boxes.

Be realistic, ahead of time:

You know the state of your lower back better than anyone. It’s important to create your moving plan based on an accurate assessment of your abilities. If your back hurts tremendously each and every time you have to pick up the dry cleaning, is it realistic to think you’ll be able to move your couch, bed, and possessions? If you know you can’t really do the heavy lifting yourself, don’t wait until the last minute to recruit help. Either start looping your friends into the process early, or simplify life by working with a professional moving company who can handle all the logistics for you.