Avoiding Back Injuries While Shoveling

04 Dec Avoiding Back Injuries While Shoveling

​We all wish snow could shovel itself. Unfortunately, that can’t happen and we have to go out to shovel each snowfall. Shoveling snow off your driveway or pathway can take hours, which leads to back pain and other injuries. Some of the most common winter injuries are back-related due to shoveling snow or slipping on ice. However, you can easily avoid these injuries. At Island Chiropractic, our mission is to help you get back to your original state of well being. If you are looking for a chiropractor near Plainview, book an appointment with us today! In the meantime, consider keeping these tips in mind for the next time you shovel snow during the winter months:

• Stretch: Before you do any form of physical activity, you need to stretch. You are lowering your chances of injury whenever you stretch because the muscles in your body loosen up, which gives you the flexibility you need to maintain range of motion in the joints. Before going outside, do some light stretches for 10 to 15 minutes.

• Have proper outdoor gear: Wear sturdy boots so you do not slip on the ice, cover each part of your body to avoid frostbite, and use a shovel that is the right size. Your shovel shouldn’t be too heavy, too long, or too short. If you have trouble maneuvering the snow, consider a snow-blower.

• Position yourself correctly: Try to keep your body facing forward towards the snow you are shoveling. Keep your shoulders square as well and your feet flat on the ground, facing forward. If you position your body incorrectly, you could potentially twist your back when shoveling. Most importantly, remember to bend at your hips and not at your spine.

• Pace yourself: Remind yourself to take frequent breaks. Warm-up inside the house or drink hot fluids. Pay close attention to which parts of the snow are soft or hard. This will let you know when to take it easy.

Visit a Chiropractor near Plainview:

Finding the right pain relief for back pain is not easy. Luckily for you, Island Chiropractic has a team of experts willing to snap you back into shape. We have a wide range of treatments and therapies that involve physical pushing and pulling to help you alleviate back pain. Call us today and find out more for a chiropractor near Plainview!