Snow. It's finally here. Hoooooray! (insert sarcastic tone here)
Ok, so maybe the kids are excited about the prospect of snow angels and snowmen, but let's face it, for us adults, it can mean hours of back-breaking work. So before you grab the shovel, consider these simple dos and don'ts to prevent injuring yourself.
DO Take an athletic stance with your feet staggered and shoulder width apart.
DO Bend at the hip and knee when bending forward and lifting, keeping your spine straight and chest up.
DO Plan your best approach for clearing snow. Pushing snow puts less strain on your lower back than lifting and throwing it.
DON'T twist your spine while throwing the snow. Instead, pivot your feet and turn your whole body.
DON'T fill the shovel, especially with wet and heavy snow.
Editor's Note: DO drink hot chocolate when you get back inside from shovelling :)
Source: Dr Andrew W deBethune - Lynch Chiropractic Arts Center