An EMT may injure his or her back, even if it is straight, if the:

When lifting, maintaining a straight back is crucial to preventing injury; however, bending forward at the hips can significantly increase the risk of a back injury. This posture puts unnecessary stress on the lumbar spine and can lead to strains or sprains. The core muscles are engaged in a normal standing position, but when the hips are bent while lifting, the distribution of weight shifts, and the lower back bears most of the load. This improper technique can compromise stability and increase the likelihood of overexertion, resulting in injury.

Maintaining proper posture throughout the lifting process is essential, as it helps distribute weight evenly across the body. Therefore, even if the back appears straight while bending at the hips, it can still lead to pain or injury due to poor biomechanics. Proper lifting techniques, including bending at the knees while keeping the back straight, should always be emphasized to ensure the safety of EMTs during patient handling.