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UAB spine surgeon Jakub Godzik, M.D., shares expert tips for safely lifting pumpkins this fall, helping families prevent back strain, reduce the risk of spinal injury and enjoy pumpkin patch visits pain-free.
Proper lifting techniques can help prevent back strain and reduce the risk of spinal injury when carrying heavy pumpkins.With the arrival of fall comes a treasured seasonal tradition: going to the pumpkin patch. While visiting the pumpkin patch remains a popular activity for many families, incorrectly lifting these large orange fruits carries the risk of spinal injury. By understanding how to properly lift heavy objects, an expert at the University of Alabama at Birmingham says, families and individuals can avoid back strain, protect the spine and enjoy this cherished autumn activity pain-free.
How incorrect lifting affects the spine
Many people instinctively bend forward to pick objects off the ground. According to Jakub Godzik, M.D., a spinal neurosurgeon in UAB’s Department of Neurosurgery, bending forward by arching the back when attempting to lift a heavy object causes the spine to curve unnaturally.
“Lifting heavy objects and using the wrong posture can place incredible stress on the joints of the spine,” Godzik said. “Because of the way the spine is built, the force that goes through those joints is almost 10 times heavier than what you are lifting. Over time, this repeated stress can cause significant damage to your spine leading to pain problems, like back pain and sciatica.”
Joints and ligaments become less flexible over time, making people more vulnerable to sprains with age. Godzik says the lower back is particularly vulnerable because it supports most of the body’s weight.
Lifting heavy objects safely
Because pumpkins come in many shapes and sizes, looks can be deceiving. A pumpkin that appears to be a manageable size may be heavier than one assumes.
Following these simple tips can help keep the spine pain-free:
- Before assuming a pumpkin’s weight, try to move it with a foot to gauge whether it is light enough to pick up. If not, ask for help.
- Reduce the amount of bending forward by getting as close to the pumpkin as possible.
- Squat to lift, keeping the back straight; wrap arms around the body of the pumpkin, and slowly lift with the legs.
- Without bending forward, gently place the pumpkin in another container, such as a wheelbarrow, and avoid carrying it for long periods of time.
Practicing proper lifting techniques during visits to the pumpkin patch will ensure that families can enjoy this fall festivity for years to come.