Back Safety: Bending
Bending can strain or even injure your back. Follow the tips below to move safely and protect your back as you perform everyday activities.
Bending over
- Keep your feet shoulder-width apart.
- Move your whole body as one unit.
- Bend at your hips and knees, not at your waist.
- Flatten your stomach and tighten your leg muscles.
- To keep your spine straight, let your buttocks move out behind you. Don't try to tuck them under.
- If you need to, place one hand on a sturdy object for support.
Bending to the floor
- Lower yourself to one knee. If you can, rest one hand on a sturdy object to help lower yourself.
- Rest one arm on your raised knee.
- Don't bend at the waist.
- Don't hunch your back or neck to reach to the floor. Instead, bend more at your hips and knees to get closer.
Date Last Reviewed:
9/1/2025
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