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Pixiegirl Asked July 2014

Can anyone recommend a good back brace?

Trying to save my back as I lift my mom.

Pixiegirl Jul 2014
To everyone...thank you so much for your answers. Is there a hoister for small spaces?
We don't have much room. Mom is about 90lbs broke hip a year ago and cannot stand. I am only 110 lbs and very concerned about my back. Any lifting tips? Anyone else having to lift loved ones?

Marialake Jul 2014
My MIL is twice my weight and used to be seriously combative. She pushed against me every time. About 6 months ago I hurt my back badly.
Thanks to meds - she is calmer now and I am able to turn her without as much resistance. Still, it's really difficult isn't it?

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Me1000 Jul 2014
Thank you freqflyer for the information. I like how you asked your dad if he'd have mom lift the boxes! Im glad its working for you and what great idea :)

kazzaa, also great idea! Im sure Pixiegirl will have plenty of options and ideas to use. You guys are great!

kazzaa Jul 2014
What about a hoister for mum so you dont have to lift her? ive seen these you can get her from bed into a chair or wheelchair?? Look them up on elder care shops?

freqflyer Jul 2014
Me1000, it has been found that heavy lifting can have a direct impact on the aorta, which is the heart's main artery. Lifting more than half your body weight could cause the aorta to tear in some places..... symptoms are very similar to having a stroke.

Don't forget, any type of heavy lifting can cause your blood pressure to rise. I've heard where weight lifters can get their blood pressure up to 300, which can be dangerous.

For myself, I could never lift either of my parents, and have to be careful even carrying in their groceries. I finally found a way to have Dad [92] remember that I am now limited to lifting.... "Dad, to remember this, ask yourself if you would have Mom [96] lift those heavy boxes... if the answer is *no*, then my answer would also be *no*." So far he hasn't asked me to lift anything.

Me1000 Jul 2014
I have never used one, but I agree with pamstegman to get fitted for one. Lifting someone is hard. Like freqflyer says "plan ahead" . I didn't know heart disease can develop from a lot of lifting, I learned something new today :) Good luck Pixiegirl

freqflyer Jul 2014
Pixiegirl, do you have someone else to help you when you need to lift your Mom? I've read there is less stress on your back when there is a second person. One also has to watch out of heart issues developing when doing a lot of lifting, and with muscle aches/pains in your legs. It all depends on your age and physical condition.

A few years ago I could lift just about anything... now I am lucky I can lift a sack of potatoes. Mother Nature can bring out surprises when you least expect it. So plan ahead.

pamstegma Jul 2014
Get an Rx and a medical supply store will measure you up for the right brace.

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