ROSEMONT, Ill., Nov. 20 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Seasoned travelers have a saying - "Pack your bags, then take out half." This refers to the fact that most of us bring much more than we need on our trips. Now, even more travelers are echoing that line, especially, since so many airline providers are charging passengers a fee for checking luggage. However, if you are one of those people who cannot decide which half to leave at home, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) has recommendations to help you carry your baggage safely.
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According to the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission:
Packing light may prevent injuries such as:
"Lifting and carrying luggage that is too big or too heavy for a person's size and frame can put serious strains on your body," said Jeffrey A. Fried, MD, orthopaedic surgeon and spokesperson for the AAOS. "To minimize any damage to your neck, shoulders and back, it is important to bend at your knees, lift luggage with your leg muscles while tightening your abdominal muscles and avoid twisting and rotating your spine."
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The Academy offers the following strategies to prevent injuries when lifting and carrying luggage:
Other important tips:
Orthoinfo.org
About AAOS
-- In 2008, more than 53,000 people were treated in hospital emergency rooms, doctors' offices, clinics and other medical settings for injuries related to luggage.
SOURCE American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
