That motor almost ended my career with one wrong lift

I want to warn you all about back pain from lifting heavy parts. Last week, I picked up an elevator motor by myself. It was only 120 pounds, but I twisted wrong. Now my lower back hurts all the time, even at home. I missed two jobs because I could not bend down. Always use a hoist or get a second person for heavy items. A small choice can really mess up your health and work.

3 comments

3 Comments

umab352mo ago

My buddy did something similar with a transmission last fall. He tried to be a hero and lift it alone, felt that same pop in his lower back. Couldn't even drive his kid to school for a week, just stuck on the couch. He finally went to a doctor who sent him to PT, and they had him doing these really simple leg lifts and core stuff. It took forever, but he says he won't even pick up a full tool box by himself now.

kellyw443mo ago

Three years ago I threw out my back moving a 95 pound pump. What finally helped was seeing a physical therapist who showed me specific stretches. I still do those stretches every morning before work, and it made a huge difference. It took months, but now I know that kind of pain is no joke and always ask for help.

aaron3843mo ago

@kellyw44 is totally right about needing the right stretches. Too many people just rest or take pain pills, but that doesn't fix the real problem. Your story shows how targeting the actual muscles with a pro's help is what gets lasting results. It's frustrating that more people don't try physical therapy first, because it teaches you how to take care of yourself for good. That daily routine you built is the key to keeping the pain from coming back. Learning to ask for help is smart, but learning how to fix it yourself is even better.