Dr. Russell Brokstein, chiropractor and owner of Hometown Family Wellness Center in Freehold, NJ, notes how shoveling snow is one of the biggest causes of injury every winter. “I see patients from Freehold, Marlboro, Jackson, Howell, Colts Neck and other surrounding towns every year that come in with injuries after shoveling snow, especially back pain and shoulder pain. I try to educate our communities how to prevent injuries from occurring.”
According to the US Consumer Products Safety Commission in 2007, over 118,000 people were treated in hospital ER’s, doctor offices and other medical settings. Injuries ranged from sprains and strains particularly of the back and shoulders.
Before shoveling snow, check with your doctor first as it’s a strenuous activity. It places high stress on the heart. If you do not exercise regularly or have a heart condition, you should consider hiring somebody.
Dress appropriately in layers, and wear boots with proper treading so you don’t slip.
Clear snow early and often, by shoveling periodically as the snow accumulates.
More important tips:
Warm up your muscles ahead of time. Treat shoveling snow like exercise. Warm up, and stretch your muscles for about 10 minutes before shoveling snow.
Pace yourself by taking frequent breaks and prevent dehydration by drinking plenty of water. If you start to have chest pain, shortness of breath, or other signs of heart attack, stop shoveling and seek emergency care.
Use a shovel that is comfortable for your height and strength. By spacing your hands on the shovel grip you can increase your leverage.
Try not to lift the snow. Pushing the snow is much better. If you must lift, lift smaller loads and do not twist or toss the snow over your shoulder or to the side…walk to where you want to dump it. Twisting motions stess your back and cause damage to your discs.
Squat and lift with your legs apart, knees bent and back straight. Do NOT bend at your waist.
Holdinig a shovel full of snow with your arms outstretched puts too much weight on your spine. Never remove deep snow all at once…do it in pieces.
If you do get injured, chiropractic has the highest ratings in treatment of back, disc and other spinal problems. On top of that, chiropractic as maintenance of the spine can help prevent injuries from occurring, even while shoveling snow.
What are you waiting for?
Get Adjusted For The Health Of Your Spine And Body!