Carrying Luggage needn't be a Pain!

Carrying luggage is taken for granted but can lead to many strains or injuries if not performed correctly. A good set of carry on luggage can help alleviate this problem. The following advice is provided by AAOS (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons):

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 49,100 luggage-related injuries were treated at hospital emergency rooms, doctors' offices and clinics in 2004. Injuries to the back, neck and shoulder may be attributed to the mismanagement of heavy, over-packed luggage, which can be a common travel mistake.

Larger/Heavier Bag = Greater Risk for Neck, Back and Shoulder Injuries

Tips for Lifting and Carrying Luggage

Tip 1: To avoid injury, use proper judgment when packing, lifting and carrying luggage.

Tip 2: Pack lightly as lifting and carrying bulky luggage can strain your bones, muscles and joints.

Tip 3: Look for a sturdy, light, high-quality and transportable luggage (preferably with wheels and a handle.)

Tip 4: When possible, place items in a few smaller bags instead of one large luggage piece.

Tip 5: Carry light pieces in both hands rather than one heavy item in a hand off to the side. (This can decrease stress to the spine.)

Tip 6: .If it is too cumbersome, get help

Tip 7: Carry all rolling luggage when climbing stairs.

Lifting Technique

To minimize orthopaedic injuries-

Step 1: Stand alongside the luggage

Step 2: Bend at the knees

Step 3: Lift the luggage using your leg muscles – do not your back and waist.

Step 4: Avoid twisting or rotating your spine. Point your toes in the direction you are headed and turn your entire body in that direction.

Step 5: Once you lift the luggage, hold it close to your body.

o       Do not rush when lifting or carrying a suitcase.

o       Avoid carrying luggage that is bulky for long periods of time. Make sure to check heavier items when traveling, rather than carrying them for the duration of the trip.

Positioning Luggage in a Compartment

Step 1: Lift it onto the top of the seat using the ‘Lifting Technique’ above.

Step 2: Place your hands on the left and right sides of the suitcase and lift it up.

Step 3: Position the base (side with wheels) of the luggage and slide that side in first.

Step 4: Then put one hand on top of the luggage and push it to the back of the compartment.

• To remove the luggage, reverse this process.

Backpacks/Shoulder Bags

Backpacks can cause a great deal of strain on the (back) muscles if used recklessly or incorrectly.

• A Backpack should have two padded and adjustable shoulder straps to equally balance the weight.
• Backpacks with several compartments are more useful as they are able to secure various-sized items and thus distribute the weight more evenly.
• Pack heavier items low and towards the center.
• Avoid slinging a backpack over one shoulder. This does not distribute weight evenly and greatly increases the chance of muscle strain.
• If you use a duffel or shoulder bag be sure to switch sides often. This will reduce strain on either side of the body.