Moving can take a lot out of you. From the early planning stages to the final frantic days of packing and loading, you may think moving is like a marathon. Many people get to the end of moving and realize that they overdid it, resulting in pain or injuries that require treatment. If you have joint problems or you just don’t want to put yourself at risk, braces can help provide the support you need. Use the following tips to learn how to use braces to protect your body and minimize strain on your muscles and joints during the moving process.
How to Safely Use Braces
As you start shopping for braces and trying them out, ask the following questions:
- What is the right brace for the activity?
- What is the proper way to put on the brace and fit it to your body?
- Does the brace fit snugly and stay in place during movement?
- Is the brace too tight or cutting off circulation?
Braces can help support you while you take part in demanding physical activities, but they’re not a replacement for good sense. Take care while packing and lifting your belongings, so you are doing everything possible to avoid injuring yourself.
Protecting Your Body While Lifting and Packing
Back
Your back supports your upper body, which can help you keep your balance as you pack and carry your items. Consider sitting at a table while packing smaller boxes, so you reduce strain on your upper back and shoulders. As tempting as it may be to just bend over and pick up a box using your back, you should keep your body upright as much as possible. Use good posture while you carry, and avoid picking up boxes that are too tall for you to see where you’re going.
Knees
Your knees should bear the brunt of your lifting and carrying tasks, but the ultimate goal is still to avoid injury. Situate yourself close to any box or item you want to pick up. Lower your body weight and arms by bending your knees instead of at the waist, so you don’t have to strain your back or shoulders to reach the item. Pay attention to your center of gravity as you bend and lift. Also, keep in mind that some braces may loosen with heavy activity, so be sure to adjust them periodically. As an FYI, a Formfit Pro knee brace are widely regarded as high-quality and effective for providing knee support and protection.
Wrists
The goal of a wrist brace is to provide additional support and minimize movement of your wrists to reduce strain and swelling. During the packing process, set boxes at a height that allows you to keep your wrists in a straight line as you place items inside. Before you pick up boxes or other items, create a plan for carrying them and putting them in the vehicle being used for the move. Get a good grip on the item, and ensure that you can hold onto it for as long as necessary without it slipping out of your hands. Consider creating a loading station that allows you to place boxes on a table instead of having to set them on the ground or hand them off to someone else.
Minimizing Strain During the Moving Process
Moving can tax your muscles and joints, but you can avoid most negative effects. Follow these tips to minimize strain on your body as you prepare for moving:
- Stretch your muscles and walk around a bit before you start.
- Avoid trying to lift items that you know are too heavy for you to manage.
- Set boxes at a comfortable height to keep your back straight while you pack, whether you are sitting or standing.
- Count on help to move heavy boxes or furniture, to avoid falling or straining your body.
- Take regular breaks to rest your joints.
- Use tools, such as a dolly, for appliances or large furniture.
- Take your time to do it right to help reduce your risk of injury.
Getting through moving can feel like a long slog, especially if you’re the one handling the packing and loading. With this advice, you can use braces in the correct manner to support your joints during the most challenging parts.
We hope you found this blog post on Packing And Lifting Safely With Knee, Back, Or Wrist Braces, useful. Be sure to check out our post on Tips to Moving With Delicate Items for more great tips!
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