Common home moving injuries and how to prevent them

Types of moving injuries and how to avoid them

Back injuries

Knee and ankle injuries

Muscle injuries

Shoulder and neck injuries

Cuts and scrapes

Broken bones

Hernias

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Common home moving injuries and how to prevent them
Facts & Stats • 30 Days ago

Types of moving injuries and how to avoid them

Moving homes can be an exciting yet challenging experience, especially when tackling it without professional assistance. The physical demands of home moving often lead to injuries, from strains and sprains to more serious issues affecting your back, neck, and shoulders. The hurried pace and stress of packing and lifting can easily result in mishaps that catch you off guard. However, there are effective strategies to minimize these risks. By employing proper lifting techniques and considering the benefits of hiring professional movers, you can ensure a safer transition. Prioritizing safety during moving not only protects your well-being but also safeguards your belongings. In this blog, we’ll explore common moving injuries and offer practical tips on how to prevent them for a smoother, injury-free moving experience.

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Here are the most common injuries associated with moving:


Back injuries


One of the most prevalent injuries during home moving is back strain, often caused by the repetitive bending and lifting of heavy items. This can lead to anything from minor sprains to more severe issues like herniated discs or torn muscles, which can be extremely painful and may even require surgical intervention. To protect your back during a move, it’s essential to adopt safe lifting techniques. Always lift with your legs instead of your back, utilize moving equipment such as dollies and straps to ease the burden, and avoid overpacking boxes—keeping them light and manageable is key. When dealing with particularly heavy items, don’t hesitate to ask a friend for help to evenly distribute the weight. Being aware of your physical limits is crucial in preventing back injuries, allowing you to navigate the challenges of moving more safely and effectively.


Knee and ankle injuries


Knee and ankle injuries are common during home moving, as these joints are vulnerable to strain from heavy lifting and sudden movements. The knees can suffer sprains, dislocations, or serious injuries requiring surgery, while ankles may twist or roll when handling bulky items. To reduce these risks, use proper lifting techniques and tools, lift heavy items with assistance, and wear sturdy shoes with good support. Additionally, knee pads can help alleviate strain, and keeping pathways clear will prevent trips and falls. By taking these precautions, you can ensure a safer and smoother moving experience.


Muscle injuries


Muscle injuries during home moving include cramps, strains, tears, and contusions. Strains, or "pulled" muscles, often affect the shoulders, neck, and lower back, leading to soreness and spasms. More serious tears can damage blood vessels, while cramps result from lactic acid buildup in the calves and thighs. To prevent these injuries, stretch and exercise beforehand, stay hydrated, take regular breaks, and use appropriate moving equipment. These precautions can help you avoid muscle damage during your moving experience.


Shoulder and neck injuries


Shoulder and neck injuries are common during home moving, often caused by falls or overexertion. These can include muscle sprains, pinched nerves, and even serious spinal injuries. To prevent these injuries, use proper moving equipment to reduce strain and prioritize safety to avoid falls. It's also important to take regular breaks instead of rushing through tasks.


Cuts and scrapes


Cuts and scrapes are common injuries during home moving, often caused by sharp tools and edges of boxes or kitchenware. While usually minor, it’s important to take precautions. Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, closed-toe shoes, and gloves to protect yourself. Keep bandages and antiseptic nearby for any injuries. Safely pack sharp items to further reduce risks. To avoid these injuries altogether, consider hiring a professional mover, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your move while they handle the heavy lifting.

Hiring experienced packers and movers is the smartest decision you can make, allowing experts to manage your move safely and efficiently.


Broken bones


While broken bones are less common during home moving, they can still occur, particularly with injuries to fingers and toes from dropped boxes or slammed doors. To minimize the risk of fractures, it’s essential to wear gloves with a good grip and closed-toe shoes. Avoid overloading boxes and ensure their bottoms are reinforced to prevent collapses. Additionally, be cautious on stairs and when handling bulky items to prevent falls or accidents that could lead to broken arms or legs. For those looking to further reduce the risk of injury, hiring professional movers can be a wise choice.


Hernias


Hernias are a serious risk during home moving, often resulting from the strain of lifting heavy objects. A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue protrudes through a weakened area in the abdominal wall, which can happen due to excessive pressure. To prevent hernias while moving, it’s crucial to take specific precautions. Avoid overpacking boxes and keep their weight manageable. Always seek the help of professional movers and never attempt to move bulky furniture or appliances alone.


The most effective way to avoid common moving injuries is to seek professional help. Hiring experienced packers and movers is the smartest decision you can make, allowing experts to manage your move safely and efficiently.

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