IH Blog Lead In
With all physicial there is usually a proper and improper technique applied to the motions and snow shoveling isn't any different. When shoveling snow, do you know that you should never throw the snow over your shoulder or to the side since this twisting motion can stress your back? Here are 10 tips to help you safely get the white stuff of your driveway.
Even thought the white fluffy stuff looks light and cozy it can become veyr heavy and potentially casue injuries, generally the back. Recognizing snow shoveling can injure your back, now let's look at tips to help you avoid such problems.
If you experience pain of any kind, stop immediately and seek assistance
- Choose a snow shovel that is right for you:
- Be sure your shovel has a curved handle, as this enables you to keep you back straighter when shoveling.
- Obtain a shovel with an appropriate length handle. The length is correct when you can slightly bend your knees, flex your back 10 degrees or less, and hold the shovel comfortably in your hands at the start of the "shoveling stroke."
- A plastic shovel blade will generally be lighter than a metal one, putting less strain on your spine.
- Sometimes, a smaller blade is better. Although a small blade can't shovel as much, it avoids the risk of trying to pick up a too heavy pile of snow.
- Push the snow, do not lift it. Pushing puts far less strain on the sprine.
- Be sure your muscles are warm before you start shoveling. Cold, tight muscles are more likely to sprain or strain.
- When you grip the shovel, make sure hands are at least 12 inches aprat. By creating distance between your hands, you increase leverage and reduce strain on the body.
- Your shoveling technique is important. The American Acedemy of Orthopaedic Surgeons reccomend: "If you lift the snow, lift if properly. Squat with your legs apart, knees bent and back straight. Lift with your legs. Don't bend at the waist. Scoop small amounts of snow into the shovel and walk to where you want to dump it. Holding a shovel of snow with your arms outreached puts too much weight on your spine. Never remove deep snow all at once; do it piecemeal. Shovel an inch or two; then take another inch off. Rest and repeat in necessary." In addition to this, remember to move your feet rather than twisting.
- Never throw snow over your shoulder.
- Remember wet snow can be very heavy. One full shovel load can weigh as much as 25 pounds.
- Pace yourself by taking frequent breaks to gently stretch your back, arms, and legs.
- Consider buying a snow-blower. When used correctly, a snow-blower will put far less strain on your back than shoveling snow.
It can be hard to
stay active in the cold weather, but keeping active can help reduce risk of injury as well as numerous heath factors.