Knee Bursitis: How to Prevent This Common Knee Injury When Lifting Heavy Objects

Workers who regularly lift heavy objects often sustain knee injuries, one of the most common being knee bursitis. The knee consists of a fluid-filled pouch separating the bones. Known as the bursa, this pouch prevents the knee's bones from touching each other. Knee bursitis is a type of injury that involves inflammation of the bursa. So, what steps can you take to prevent knee bursitis when lifting heavy objects?

Wear Knee Braces

You can lower your risk of knee bursitis when lifting heavy objects by wearing knee braces. Knee braces are compression wraps or pads that support your knees. They provide additional support for your knees so that they are less likely to sustain injury.

Beware of Weight

If a load is too heavy, it may stress your knees to the point where fluid accumulates and, therefore, causes knee bursitis. The heavier the load, the more stress it will place on your knees. When you encounter a particularly heavy load, consider asking a coworker for assistance. A helping hand is often all it takes to prevent knee bursitis when lifting heavy objects.

Use Your Legs

When lifting heavy objects, don't bend your back. Instead, use your legs. It may sound counterproductive in your efforts to prevent knee bursitis, but lifting with your legs is the most ergonomic posture. It won't stress your back, and when performed correctly, it won't stress your knees. Just flex your legs to lower your body, at which point you can grab and lift the object. As long as the load isn't too heavy, it shouldn't injure your knees.

Invest in Supportive Footwear

Wearing the right shoes or boots can lower your risk of knee bursitis. If your shoes or boots are worn out, they won't offer much support. Therefore, wearing them may contribute to knee injuries like bursitis. Without adequate support, your knees will experience more stress under the pressure of heavy objects. This is why it's a good idea to invest in supportive footwear if you regularly lift heavy objects.

Don't Lock Your Knees

You should avoid locking your knees when lifting heavy objects. Locking your knees refers to extending your legs all the way out so that they don't flex. When you lock your knees, they'll experience more stress. A better approach is to keep your knees somewhat flexed when lifting heavy objects. Flexing your knees will distribute the weight of the load throughout your body.