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My back screamed at me during a drywall job, and I'm listening now
Last Tuesday, I was hauling drywall sheets by myself when a sudden twinge in my lower back stopped me cold (should have grabbed a helper, I know). I had to call it a day and spent the next two on the couch, which never happens. It really hit me how easy it is to ignore good form when you're in a rush. I've been contracting for over a decade without a major issue, so this was a wake-up call. Now I'm doing simple stretches every morning (even if it feels silly) and looking at back supports online. What do you folks do to avoid getting hurt on site? Any quick habits or gear that actually works? I'm hoping to learn from others who've been through this kind of scare.
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mary_ross6mo ago
Oh man, that's a rough lesson to learn! I totally get ignoring form when you're rushing, but that's exactly when you get hurt. Working through pain like Karen mentioned is a fast track to being out of work for good. I've seen too many guys wreck their backs and never come back the same. @jade3 has the right idea, listening to your body is key. My quick habit is to never lift anything heavy right after getting out of the truck, I walk around for a minute first to loosen up. And I always use a dolly for sheet goods now, no exceptions, even if it's just one trip.
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karen_owens6mo ago
Question if you need all that fuss. Lots of us just work through the pain without changing much.
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