Does Lifting Technique Really Matter for Back Pain?

Dear Readers,

“Lift with your legs, not your back!” – we’ve all heard it, but does it really matter?

A new single-case study published in the European Journal of Pain (2025) by Ivan Pui Hung Au, Peter O’Sullivan, and colleagues takes a closer look at lifting style and chronic low back pain (LBP). The results are both fascinating and refreshing.

What Did They Find?

Lifting technique is just one piece of the puzzle.

For some participants, shifting from squat-like lifting to semi-squat or stoop-style movements—faster and more relaxed—led to functional improvements and less pain. In fact, changes in technique were linked to better function in many cases.

For others, technique tweaks made little difference—suggesting that back pain is far more complex than simply “how” you lift.

Confidence, fear of movement, strength, and even stress played a significant role in outcomes.

Why This Matters

For years, we’ve been told that a “neutral spine” is the only safe way to lift. This research reminds us there’s no single perfect lift. Your back is strong, and movement variety—paired with good conditioning—might matter more than rigid rules.

HealthPlus Perspective

At HealthPlus, we empower patients to build strength, resilience, and confidence. Lifting isn’t dangerous when done with awareness and progressive loading—it’s part of living a strong, capable life.

Reference:
Au, I. P. H., Saraceni, N., Smith, A., O’Sullivan, P., Ng, L., & Campbell, A. (2025). Is lifting technique related to pain and functional limitation? A replicated single-case design study of five people with lifting-related chronic low back pain. European Journal of Pain. https://doi.org/10.1002/ejp.70071

Kind Regards,

Nihar Palan