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Back Safety: Turning

Protect your back while you stand or turn. Turning can twist your spine if you don’t do it correctly. Keep these tips in mind as you move.

Front view of man standing with arms at sides. Three-quarter view of man taking small step to turn. Side view of man standing with arms at sides.

Step 1

  • To turn, move your feet instead of twisting your body at the waist.

  • Turn your hips and shoulders together.

Step 2

  • Take short steps around.

  • Try pivoting on the heel closest to where you’re headed.

Step 3

  • Step forward out of the turn.

  • Keep your knees relaxed and your stomach muscles tightened.

Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Turley Jr PA-C
Online Medical Reviewer: Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer: Thomas N Joseph MD
Date Last Reviewed: 8/1/2022
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