Proper Snow Shoveling Techniques

One of the more common causes of back injuries we see at Damato Chiropractic Center of Glastonbury during the winter months is snow removal. Using the wrong body mechanics when shoveling snow can put undue stress on the lower back and lead to a painful muscle strain, or possibly more serious back injuries, such as a herniated disc or disc degeneration.

Pick the Right Snow Shovel

An ergonomic snow shovel can help take some of the effort out of your snow removal chores. A shovel with a curved handle or an adjustable handle length will minimize painful bending, requiring you to bend your knees only slightly and arch your back very slightly while keeping the shovel blade on the ground. In addition, a small, lightweight, plastic blade helps reduce the amount of weight that you are moving.

Warm Up Thoroughly

Cold, tight muscles are more prone to injury than warmed up, flexible muscles. Do your back a favor by warming up for five to ten minutes before shoveling or any strenuous activity. Get your blood moving with a brisk walk, marching in place, or another full-body activity. Then, stretch your low back and hamstrings (the large muscles in the back of the thigh) with some gentle stretching exercises. Limber up your arms and shoulders with a body hug.

Pace Yourself

Shoveling small amounts of snow frequently is less strenuous than shoveling a large pile at once. If possible, removing snow over a period of days will lessen the strain on the back and arms. In deep snow, remove a few inches off the top at a time, rather than attempting to shovel the full depth at once. When shoveling, take a break for a minute or two every 10-15 minutes or if you feel overworked at any point. Use this opportunity to stretch your arms, shoulders, and back to keep them warm and flexible.

Use Ergonomic Lifting Techniques

Whenever possible, push the snow to one side rather than lifting it. When lifting the snow shovel is necessary, make sure to use ergonomic lifting techniques:

• Always face towards the object you intend to lift (ie have your shoulders and hips both squarely facing it.)
• Bend at the hips, not the low back, and push the chest out, pointing forward. Then, bend your knees and lift with your leg muscles, keeping your back straight.
• Keep your loads light and do not lift an object that is too heavy for you. If you must lift a shovel full, grip the shovel with one hand as close to the blade as comfortably possible and the other hand on the handle (handle and arm length will vary the technique.)
• Avoid twisting the back to move your object to its new location – always pivot your whole body to face the new direction.
• Keep the heaviest part of the object close to your body at your center of gravity – do not extend your arms to throw the snow.
• Walk to the new location to deposit the item rather than reaching or tossing.
• When gripping the shovel, keep your hands about 12 inches apart to provide greater stability and minimize the chances of injuring your low back.