Snow Shoveling without Injury

Snow shoveling is a repetitive activity that can cause muscle strain to the lower back and shoulders. Back injuries due to snow shoveling are more likely to happen to people who may not know that they are out of condition. Following these tips can help you avoid injuries:

  • Lift smaller loads of snow, rather than heavy shovelfuls. Be sure to take care to bend your knees and lift with your legs rather than your back.
  • Use a shovel with a shaft that lets you keep your back straight while lifting. A short shaft will cause you to bend more to lift the load. Using a shovel that’s too long makes the weight at the end heavier. Step in the direction in which you are throwing the snow to prevent the low back from twisting. This will help prevent “next-day back fatigue.”
  • Avoid excessive twisting because the spine cannot tolerate twisting as well as it can tolerate other movements. Bend your knees and keep your back as straight as possible so that you are lifting with your legs.
  • Take frequent breaks when shoveling. Stand up straight and walk around periodically to extend the lower back.
  • Backward bending exercises while standing will help reverse the excessive forward bending of shoveling: stand straight and tall, place your hands toward the back of your hips, and bend backwards slightly for several seconds.
  • If you or anyone you know is experiencing back pain, consult a licensed physical therapist today.

PHYSIO Physical Therapy and Wellness Asheville specializes in low back pain relief.  Call us today for more information and to schedule your appointment.  If the snow got the best of you, don’t wait, call today because it can get worse.

Call today for more information or to schedule an appointment!

Christopher Taylor, Physical Therapist, FounderChristaylorfavicon
Lee Plamann, Physical Therapist, Doctor of Physical Therapy
Rachel Waring, Clinical Director, Doctor of Physical Therapy
Rachel Suggs, Physical Therapist Assistant

PHYSIO Physical Therapy and Wellness Asheville
660 Merrimon Ave, Ste C
Asheville, NC 28804
(828) 348-1780

https://www.PhysioWNC.com

Christopher Taylor, PT

Chris Taylor is the Founding Physical Therapist at PHYSIO Physical Therapy and Wellness Asheville. He has been voted Best Physical Therapist in Western North Carolina every year by the Mountain XPress Reader Poll. His experience includes being a patient himself which deepens his understanding of each aspect of the rehab process. He has lived and worked in 11 states which contributes to the treatment style he has developed which breaks the mold. Become a better You today! #KeepAshevilleActive