Back injuries are one of the most consistent and irreversible injuries both on and off the job. So, you must be aware of how and what you lift. Knowing that back injuries limit your capabilities for enjoying the things you love to do, paired with affecting your work load, gives way to these 10 preventative ways to avoid lower back injuries for those of you where the job requires lifting.

1. The first preventative method is to stretch for a least 2-5 minutes before you begin work. This will relax your muscles and avoid the potential for injuring yourself from not doing so. It also prevents you from pulling a muscle which can lead to muscle strains and sprains.

2. Secondly, understand and know your limits. If you can't lift it, get help, it won't hurt. Once you realize that you can't lift a certain object because of weight or size the best choice is to get others to help you.

3. Before you lift an object make sure that your body is close to that object. This will reduce and alleviate stress on the lower back.

4. Make sure your hands are free of obstructions. This will allow you to grab whatever it is tightly.

5. Make sure that you have a stance that allows you to control your lift. Check the ground or floor for cracks, debris, or loose items that could cause you to fall.

6. Be sure that while lifting and object, you use your legs instead of your back. This is where the problem develops and the back pain originates.

7. Anytime you lift an object be careful, treat it as a hazardous because it is. Be sure to lift without make sudden moves that will cause you to twist or put more pressure on your back.

8. Basically it's easier to use lifting aids whenever you can, this will take the load off and give you the edge you need.

9. Be smart about lifting objects know what your body is capable of lifting. Lifting objects very quickly can cause you to loose your balance and become fatigued.

10. Know that if you lift with your back and not within your bodies limits you will have back problems, which will persist and can worsen throughout time.