Lifting and prolapse

[Guest guest]

Sorry to be the one to share this sad news, but I know we should be

aware of how importsnt proper lifting form is.

I was not aware of this information until today, though I was told I

had a prolapsed uterus at the age of 18. Two children and 33 years later,

I now have a pessary to help with a cystocel prolapse, and am thinking

about my future options.

I guess I should be rethinking my weight lifting BFL workouts as well...

Does anyone have any insights or websites to share?

**

What are the complications of uterine prolapse?

Left untreated, uterine prolapse can interfere with bowel, bladder and

sexual functions.

Can uterine prolapse be prevented?

It may not be possible to prevent all cases of uterine prolapse, but

there are steps that can be taken to help reduce the risk:

* Maintain a healthy body weight.

* Exercise regularly (for 20 to 30 minutes, three to five times

per week), including Kegel exercises, which may be done up to four

times a day. Be sure to check with your health care provider before

starting any new exercise program.

* Eat a healthy diet balanced in protein, fat and carbohydrates.

For example, eat at least 5 to 9 servings of fruits and vegetables per

day. Also, eat food that is high in dietary fiber (such as whole grain

cereals, legumes and vegetables), and minimize your daily fat intake

to 25 to 30 grams. Using the Food Guide Pyramid (visit the web site:

mypyramid.gov) is a good way to help ensure that you are meeting your

nutrition needs. A healthy diet can help maintain weight and prevent

constipation.

* Stop smoking. This reduces the risk of developing a chronic

cough, which can put extra strain on the pelvic muscles.

* Consider estrogen replacement therapy after menopause.

* Use correct lifting techniques.

Proper techniques for lifting

* Do not try to lift objects that are awkward or too heavy for you

to lift alone. Also, avoid lifting heavy objects above waist level.

* Before you lift an object, make sure you have firm footing.

* To pick up an object that is lower than the level of your waist,

keep your back straight, and bend at your knees and hips. Do not bend

forward at the waist with your knees straight.

* Stand with a wide stance close to the object you are trying to

pick up, and keep your feet firm on the ground. Tighten your stomach

muscles and lift the object using your leg muscles. Straighten your

knees in a steady motion. Do not jerk the object up to your body.

* Stand completely upright without twisting. Always move your feet

forward when lifting an object.

* If you are lifting an object from a table, slide it to the edge

to the table so that you can hold it close to your body. Bend your

knees so that you are close to the object. Use your legs to lift the

object and come to a standing position.

* Hold packages close to your body with your arms bent. Keep your

stomach muscles tight. Take small steps and go slowly.

* To lower the object, place your feet as you did to lift, tighten

stomach muscles and bend your hips and knees.

**

The above info is from

http://www.clevelandclinic.org/health/health-info/docs/2600/2662.asp?index=9782

woman-to-woman,

M.