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Back Safety: Standing


 

Welcome to our health education library. The information shared below is provided to you as an educational and informational source only and is not intended to replace a medical examination or consultation, or medical advice given to you by a physician or medical professional.

Back Safety: Standing

Good posture decreases back pain by reducing strain on your muscles. Remember to check your posture, using the self-help tips below, every time you move or adjust position.

Standing

Bending Over

Working

Standing

  • To help keep your spine straight, line up your ears, shoulders, and hips.

  • Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Or, place one foot slightly in front of the other.

  • Keep your knees relaxed and stomach muscles slightly flattened.

Bending Over

  • Bend at your hips and knees.

  • Don't bend at your waist or round your back.

  • Rest your weight on your arms if possible.

Working

  • When standing for a long time, put one foot on a footrest. This may help ease strain on your back. The footrest should be about 5-8 inches high.

  • When reaching for objects over your head, use a stepladder. When you can't, be sure to tighten your stomach muscles to keep your back from arching.