Services & Techniques

Believe it or not, we see this a lot.  You can avoid certain hobbies or interests. You can avoid work a day or two… sometimes.  But as a parent, you simply cannot avoid being mom or dad.  So how do you lift your child when your back hurts?

Try to be honest with the situation and evaluate when the child truly needs to be lifted.  Is the child able to walk?  Are there minimal tasks they can help with?  Try to capitalize on those situations.  You can always first sit down and have them sit with you do avoid having to lift them. It may be hard emotionally not to lift them but do your best.

Ok, time to put the child in a crib or time to change a diaper.  The spine can move in almost any direction and in combination with several other motions.  If you aren’t careful, you will find a position that causes the pain to spike. Imagine a 2x4 strapped vertically to your back – keep your spine straight.  Assuming you don’t have knee or hip problems, bend at the knees.  Get as low as you can, knowing that you can rely on your leg strength to move you vertically back up.  

When reaching for the child, you want them as close to you as possible.  Try not to have your arms extended.  Bring them as close to your center of gravity as possibly.  Keep your feet shoulder width and move your feet with intention.  

When placing the child back down, simply reverse this order.  Keep the child as close to you as possible, trying not to extend both arms.  Bend at the knees – not the low back.

Another option I would strongly consider is a back brace.  They have really come a long way and can get you by in a pinch when you don’t have the luxury of resting.  Do not wear them all day long.  Take breaks, as you do want your core muscles working somewhat,  but if you must do some short time moving or lifting, they can be helpful.  More than once I have worn one under my shirt while adjusting patients.  (Yes, sometimes your chiropractor hurts his back, too. The irony!)

In closing, I see parents put themselves last.  The sooner you are healthy, the sooner you can be a better mom or dad.  Don’t ignore your pain – take care of yourself.  Now is the second best time to be making healthy choices!