Its that fun time of year again, temperatures have dipped down and the impending doom of snow fall is on our mind. It’s definitely the time to do a refresher course on how to prevent a back injury from shoveling heavy snow this winter!
To begin we need to discuss proper warm up techniques. Shoveling snow is a very demanding and physical activity. It require both big muscle groups and small to push and move snow. Make sure that before beginning moving snow you get your legs, low back, and shoulders properly moving. A few different ideas could include:
- Jogging in Place
- Slow bending at the waist to the floor
- Rolling the shoulders both forward and backward
- Jumping Jacks
- Or any other idea you have at home to get those muscle warmed up and ready to work
Next we need to remember a few techniques to keep your back at less risk of injury when moving snow.
- When possible always push the snow forward
- Don’t bend and throw snow to the side as it increases risk for low back injury
- Make sure to throw snow forward
- Throw smaller loads, better to take a couple of extra shovels than risk injuring yourself.
Lastly, if you do injure yourself make sure to get inside and apply some ice to the area. The ice will slow the swollen, and reduce muscle spasms. Than give us a call at the office to determine if and when we should see you to get you back in the game.
