Shoveling Snow

Snow shoveling is one of the most stressful and traumatic household chores you can do to your spinal cord and muscles.

When shoveling, consider these tips:

• Make sure your body is properly conditioned before donning your winter coat and grabbing your snow shovel. Warmed up muscles will be less likely to tighten up or snap when under the strains of snow shoveling. You can warm up by taking a brisk walk or doing simple stretching.
• Layer your clothing to keep from over-heating. This helps to keep your muscles warm and flexible.
• Stand erect and push the snow straight ahead; avoid lifting and tossing heavy loads of snow. Avoid twisting when holding a shovel full of heavy snow. Bend at your knees to lift when shoveling.
• Rest frequently to take the strain off your muscles.
• Try to stand as erect as possible.