Ready to Shovel?

Many of us may be wishing for a White Christmas, and as pretty as it may look, it’s always a hassle having to shovel the fluffy stuff off our driveways. It’s really important to make sure that you’re shoveling snow the right way. Without the proper technique and education, our spine can take on a lot of repetitive stress from the haul. The Ontario Chiropractic Association (OCA) has put together a few helpful tips to make sure we’re shoveling the snow the best way possible. Take a look at these very important tips:

• Don’t let the snow pile up – when weather reports predict several days of snow or large quantities in a day, make sure to set aside time to shovel frequently, rather than waiting to do it all at once. This allows you to move smaller loads each time.
• Use the right shovel – using a light-weight, pusher-type shovel will allow for easier movement.
• Push the snow, don’t throw it – always push the snow to the side of your driveways, rather than throwing it. This limits the bending and twisting motions that add stress to your spine.
• If you must lift, bend your knees – try to keep a neutral spine if you have to lift the snow off the ground, and use your leg and arm muscles instead. If necessary, rather than twisting your spine, turn your whole body instead.

Some other helpful tips include: warm-up before you shovel, dress according to the weather and stay hydrated.

Remember, if you’re ever tired or short of breath, make sure to take necessary breaks. Stop shoveling immediately if you start to feel any pain. If you have persisting back pain after you’ve finished shoveling, please come and visit us here at the clinic. If you would like to find out more about how our Mississauga chiropractors can help you with your overall health, please call our office at 905-821-4951.

For more information about shoveling, please check out this link from the OCA: https://ocaprod2.blob.core.windows.net/media/Default/Documents/Public%20Education/snowshovelling-pamphleten.pdf