Moving injuries prevention 101

Relocations are stressful. However, the more risky part is getting hurt during moving. And that often happens, especially if people are moving for the first time. People who are inexperienced with relocations often underestimate how difficult it is to move house and they often end up with strained back, bruises, cuts, etc. So, if you’re preparing for the move, we’ve got you covered. Here is a simple moving injuries prevention guide – some safety tips that will make your move easy and injury-free.

Most common moving injuries - strained back

Strained back is probably one of the most common, yet very painful injuries that happen during moving. The reason why it happens is often the lack of experience, strength and doing things in a hurry. Here are some tips on how to prevent strained back while moving and carry things safely:

• Don’t overpack – Boxes that are packed with too many items are very difficult to carry, and also very dangerous for your back, as well as for the items themselves. You can easily hurt your back, drop a heavy box or the bottom can open leaving you with many damaged items.
• Be sure to know how to lift things – You’ve probably heard many times that you should lift with your knees/hands, and absolutely not with your back. But what that actually means? This includes the proper position of your body when you want to lift something –don’t bend down but squat a little bit to lift a box.
• Get some help – Don’t do this on your own. If a box/a piece of furniture is too heavy/bulky to carry on your own, ask someone to help you out. Also, it’s good to hire professional help

when you need to get rid of some old furniture pieces and not waste your energy and risk your health by doing it on your own.

• Use a dolly – This amazing tool will save your back and as well as your time. Pack multiple boxes on the dolly and transport them to the vehicle. However, be careful when loading the boxes into the car/moving truck. Another helpful tool is furniture sliders – amazing for bulky pieces.

Cuts and bruises

Very often, people are left with random cuts and bruises on their legs and arms after the move. What are the things you can do to prevent those? Well, protect your body! First of all, be sure to dress appropriately when packing and carrying things around the house. Have flexible and breathable clothes that are not too baggy – this may cause you to fall down and get bruises. Also, be sure to wear gloves – especially when packing and carrying heavy objects with sharp edges.

Sprained ankle

Also one of the most common moving injuries, sprained ankle happens for various reasons. Here are some things you can do to prevent this injury since it can be very painful and stop you from any planned work:

• Moving in winter has its benefits, but increases the chances of falling and hurting yourself. Wet and slippery floors are a common thing, especially if you’re coming in and out of the house multiple times. Also, most people have tiles around their front door, which can get extra dangerous when wet. So, if you’re moving on a rainy or snowy day, be sure to use a mop or some towels to clean the floor regularly.
• Remove everything from the floors – Carrying heavy and bulky boxes often prevents you from seeing your steps. That’s why be sure to clear the path from rooms to the vehicle, so you don’t trip on something and get injured.

Inguinal hernia

Another common injury is a hernia, which often happens because the muscles are too weak. This is a very serious condition so be sure to do everything you can to protect your body. First of all, don’t carry heavy things by yourself – ask someone to help you out or place boxes on a dolly. Again, hiring professionals is the best solution there is. Another thing you can do is to wear a protective belt and increase security. Be sure to know your limits when lifting heavy objects when moving and don’t push yourself too hard.

Moving injuries prevention – more safety tips

Apart from dealing with specific moving injuries, it’s good to go through some general safety tips and make your relocation as safe as possible.

• Secure the bottoms of the boxes – It’s very common for the bottom of the box to open if the items inside are too heavy. Be sure to secure it by double-tapping each box bottom.
• Children shouldn’t be around during the moving day – If possible let someone take care of your kids (and pets) while the boxes and furniture are being carried out.
• Take care of yourself – Moving is often stressful, and people tend to sleep and eat less, which leads to feeling tired and moving injuries. Start your moving preparations on time so you can sleep well, and eat properly, so you are energized and ready to deal with the moving day.
• Wrap sharp objects – Knives, mirrors, and other sharp objects should be wrapped securely before you start carrying them around.
• Don’t ignore the signals your body sends you or your existing injuries – Yes, moving your home is important, but you simply shouldn’t do more than you can. If you’re not feeling well, be sure to stop, and take a break.

Reading everything about moving injuries prevention is not going to protect you if you don’t implement these precautions. It’s important not to hurry, and be prepared for the move beforehand – this will reduce the stress and also prevent injuries. Have a safe move!

My name is Betty and I have been writing expert articles in relation to the moving industry for the last couple of years. Besides this specific area, I am also experienced in other spheres pertaining to the concept of relocation.