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BACK BELTS
Many of you might have noticed employees of several UCLA
Departments using back supports when they work. The effectiveness of these belts
in preventing back injuries has been questioned by many experts. There is little
scientific proof available to provide undisputed evidence that back belts reduce
the possibility of injury during lifting.
Proponents of back belts present the following arguments for their
use and effectiveness:
- A properly fitted and adjusted back belt increases intra-abdominal
pressure. This is the pressure developed when you tighten your abdominal muscles to hold
your stomach in. Strong abdominal muscles help support the spine, and can take the weight
off the lower back when lifting. Some studies have indicated that intra-abdominal pressure
can reduce the stress on the lower back by 50%. The back support is supposed to help by
boosting this pressure, especially when lifting loads greater than your body weight.
- Back belts can help increase the flexibility of the stomach and back
muscles by keeping them warm.
- Back belts can serve as an effective biofeedback tool by helping to
reinforce the worker to use proper body mechanics when lifting.
There are many people who feel that back belts have more negatives
than positives. Some concerns include the following:
- Belts can elevate a workers' blood pressure and pelvic pressure. This
can be problematic for individuals with cardiac problems.
- Back belts can increase sweating and cause heat rashes, especially
when working in warm environments.
- Improperly fitted belts can cause abdominal pain and injuries,
especially if worn for extended periods of time. Back belts should be tightened only when
performing lifting tasks. They should be loosened at other times.
- Belts can give workers' a false sense of security, encouraging them
to lift unsafe loads. It is important to recognize that belts do not increase your
strength and lifting ability.
Back belts should be used by employees only after proper screening,
fitting and instruction. Back belts, when coupled with body mechanics and lifting training
can be part of an effective injury prevention training program. They will not make you
more fit. Only a regular fitness program will do that.
Departments and individuals considering use of back
support belts should contact the Ergonomics Programs at 45590 for assistance
and training.
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