3 Simple Ways for Mechanics to Minimize Back Pain
Different lines of work present different obstacles for the mind and body. While office jobs can be stressful for the mind, the associated sedentary lifestyle can also have implications on the body. Similarly, auto mechanics spend much of their time making repairs that necessitate poor posture. This can unfortunately lead to permanent states of lower back pain– unless it is treated appropriately. To foster conditions for an extended and healthy career, mechanics should make a concerted effort to take the appropriate precautions.
#1 Correct Poor Sitting Posture
Poor sitting posture is, at times, unavoidable in the auto repair industry. At other times, though, it’s possible to sit in the correct posture.
Crouching over a customer’s vehicle to perform a tire change or engine repair can be detrimental to overall spinal health. Doing so will temporarily immobilize the muscles. With daily repetition, this will eventually lead to lower back pain.
For mechanics concerned about long-lasting back pain, it’s important to take breaks from sitting in this unnatural position. Simple tasks, such as taking a stroll around the shop, will remobilize your body and the related muscles. This prevents the muscles from developing tension, and ultimately, back pain.
Instead of crouching, try sitting with your back straight and your legs hip distance apart. If the task permits, use a low-to-the-ground chair with proper back support.
Rather than indulging medication, surgery or another healing method with adverse side effects, Chiropractic care is the ideal solution for natural pain management. Bellmore Chiropractor Dr. Brenner can help you to eliminate poor posture habits and implement healthy posture.
#2 Utilize Better Vantage Points
It’s not unusual for mechanics to spend hours on end hunched over an engine bay. Contorting your body in this position for extended periods of time each day can also harm your back. It’s easy, however, to take small steps that mitigate (or prevent altogether) the damage that this can cause.
Using a step stool or specialized mechanic step ladder will enable you to access the engine without creating harmful situations. A healthy position will be both less hazardous and more comfortable.
The same general principle applies to working underneath the car. Positioning yourself within a close proximity to the area that requires work will prevent tension from developing. With the proper guidance from Bellmore Chiropractor Dr. Brenner, you can develop a strategy for accessing car engines without unnecessary stress.
#3 Lift With The Proper Technique
Using improper lifting techniques on a day-to-day basis will greatly impact your spinal health. This could also shorten your career as a mechanic.
Most mechanics tend to carry a certain degree of pride, which prevents them from seeking assistance during strenuous lifting. Regardless of physical condition and age, all mechanics will benefit from the relief of a lifting partner. Asking for assistance lifting transmissions, engines, and other cumbersome tools/parts will go a long way in spine preservation.
Most mechanics tend to carry a certain degree of pride, which prevents them from seeking assistance during strenuous lifting. Regardless of physical condition and age, all mechanics will benefit from the relief of a lifting partner. Asking for assistance lifting transmissions, engines, and other cumbersome tools/parts will go a long way in spine preservation.
Even with a lifting partner, you should always practice proper lifting techniques. To appropriately lift replacement parts, keep your back straight while bending with the knees to reach the replacement part. Then, with a sturdy grip, slowly rise, keeping your back straight and core muscles tight. This technique, sometimes referred to as “lifting with the legs”, is key for maintaining proper posture and preventing back pain. Wearing a back belt or brace will help the back to naturally remain in a healthy position and take excess pressure off the spine.
Bellmore Centre Chiropractor
Taking these small measures during your work day will greatly improve your quality of life and career. Dr. Brenner can provide consistent chiropractic care for mechanics, and others with careers that cause strain to the back. Contact us for more information about how Chiropractic care can help you with occupation-related back pain.