How to Lift a Baby the Right Way

on November 20, 2009 at 7:10 AM

My back never hurt more than when my kids were babies and I had to pick them up all the time.

Mr. Bad Back himself, my husband, constantly scolded me: "Stop bending over; lift with your legs!"

It's one of those tasks, those parts of motherhood that seems so natural and basic that you don't even stop to think about whether you are doing it correctly. But you should definitely think about it, trust me.

Here are some back-safe reminders when picking up babies and small children:

Do ...

Maintain a wide base of support with your feet.

Bend your knees before lifting your child.

Hug your child close to your body as you lift.

Keep your head and neck up as you lift.

Don't ...

Lift with your feet close together.

Lift and reach with your knees straight and your back overstretched.

Lift with your arms extended straight or reaching far away from your body.

Look down to the floor as you lift.

How is your baby-mama back feeling lately?

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About the author Cynthia Dermody

is The Stir's Managing Editor who has trophies in her home for her skills at the Irish Jig. She makes cupcakes with as many fattening ingredients as possible, doesn't comb her hair for months at a time, and was probably a faerie in a former life.

Filed Under: child care, health

Comments (4)

sodapple

on Nov 20, 2009 at 7:48 AM

so far so good, since i just can't pick up my 3 year old anymore, she weigths 44lbs and she is tall, lol. but i do remember those days when my back will hurt after picking her up or after giving her a shower. can't wait for those days again =-D

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