Shovel Right

We were all waiting for it come, some of us anxiously awaiting it's arrival and some of us dreading it. Either way, the snow has arrived. Today as we all have to clean up the mess it left behind, here are a few pointers to consider to help protect your back.

Average snow weighs between 5-7 ponds per shovelful. Now, after last nights snow, we are looking at 10-12 pounds. So, think about the weight that you are throwing around.

1) RIGHT SHOVEL
Choose a light weight shovel that pushes the snow so you don't have to lift as much. This allows you to avoid the lifting and twisting which is what causes most of the shoveling injuries that I see. If you are using a metal shovel, you can spray it with Teflon so the snow doesn't stick to the shovel.

2) KNEES, KNEES, KNEES
Make sure to bend your knees when you do have to lift the shovel. This will utilize your leg and arm muscles and keeps your back straighter.

3) STRETCH FIRST
Shoveling is a strenuous activity, take some time to warm up and stretch before you go outside. This will help prevent a muscle strain while shoveling.

4) TAKE A BREAK
If you get tired, stop and rest. If you are short of breath, also stop. If you start to feel any chest pain stop, if it worsens over time, call 911 immediately. If you notice a pain or sudden "pop" in your back, stop and rest. If the pain persists for more than a day, or remains significant, call the office to schedule an appointment.

I hope these few tips will eliminate shoveling mishaps this winter.