Can You Use Furniture To Perform The Heimlich On Yourself?

When Furniture is an Option

In a life-threatening situation where you’re choking and can’t access a solid object to perform the Heimlich maneuver on yourself, using a sturdy piece of furniture may be your only option. If you’re alone and cannot get to a phone or another person for assistance, grab the nearest sturdy chair or table. For a chair, place the back edge against your upper abdomen, just below the ribcage, and push forward with the edge. This should dislodge the object and allow you to breathe. If using a table, place the edge against the same area of your abdomen and lean forward, applying pressure.

Choosing the Right Furniture

The ideal piece of furniture for this purpose is a sturdy, solid object with a flat edge, such as a wooden chair or a tabletop. Avoid using a couch or a bed, as they are typically too soft and may not provide sufficient pressure to dislodge the object. Also, be cautious of using a piece of furniture with sharp edges or points that could cause injury.

Performing the Heimlich on Furniture

To perform the Heimlich on furniture, stand or sit with the back of the chair or the edge of the table against your upper abdomen. Grasp the edge of the furniture with both hands, one hand on either side of the edge, and push forward with your hands. For a chair, apply force with your hands on the seat or the backrest. For a table, apply force with your hands on the edge. Continue to push forward with the edge until the object is dislodged and you can breathe again.