How should you loosen lug nuts to avoid back injury?

How should you loosen lug nuts to avoid back injury?

• A. Push down on lug wrench to loosen nuts, do not pull up on wrench as it may injure your back
• B. Withdraw the wrench slowly
• C. Lift the wrench with both hands
• D. Use a battery-powered impact wrench

Answer: (A)

Applying torque safely starts with good body mechanics. To avoid straining your back when loosening lug nuts, stand close to the wheel with your feet shoulder-width apart and your hips facing the wheel. Push down on the lug wrench using your legs and core, not by pulling upward with your arms. This transfers the effort to your stronger leg muscles, keeps your spine in a neutral, straight position, and minimizes twisting or bending at the waist. Maintain steady, controlled pressure rather than jerking the wrench, and reposition if you need to adjust your stance. Tools can help, but the safest approach for the back is using leg-driven force with proper posture.

Applying torque safely starts with good body mechanics. To avoid straining your back when loosening lug nuts, stand close to the wheel with your feet shoulder-width apart and your hips facing the wheel. Push down on the lug wrench using your legs and core, not by pulling upward with your arms. This transfers the effort to your stronger leg muscles, keeps your spine in a neutral, straight position, and minimizes twisting or bending at the waist. Maintain steady, controlled pressure rather than jerking the wrench, and reposition if you need to adjust your stance. Tools can help, but the safest approach for the back is using leg-driven force with proper posture.