If you’re a caregiver for a spouse or other family member at home, you already know how emotionally and physically challenging it can be. When you need to lift, turn or transfer a loved one to or from a wheelchair or bed, it can put added strain on your bones and joints.

When you need to lift or move a person, take your time and be aware of your posture and movement as you follow these guidelines:

• Keep your head and neck in alignment with your spine; your head, neck and back should be as straight as possible.
• Bend using your hips and knees rather than from your back.
• Avoid twisting your body.
• Always keep the person who is being moved close to your body.
• Keep your feet shoulder-width apart to maintain balance.
• Use the muscles in your legs to lift and/or pull.

If the person is too heavy or in an awkward position, get help rather than continuing on your own.

To move someone lying in bed to a wheelchair, first put the chair close to the bed and make sure to lock the wheels. If the person is not strong enough to push up to a sitting position with their hands, place one of your arms under their legs and your other arm under their back. move the person’s legs over the edge of the bed while pivoting their body, so the person ends up sitting on the edge of the bed. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart, your knees bent, and your back in a natural straight position.
Presented as a service to the community by: Union County Chiropractic Clinic, 110 Skyline Drive, Maynardville, TN (865) 992-7000 www.unioncountychiropractic.com