Snow Shoveling Tips: How to Prevent Injury

Adam March 22, 2023 0 Comments

Midwest winters can be beautiful, but ice and snow increase your risk of falling. If you’re going to be outside in the New Year, then you’re at risk of injuries from snow shoveling, even if you’ve done it for years.

You can protect yourself against injury by learning the safest ways to shovel snow. That way, you don’t have to worry about a slip and fall injury keeping you from your chores for weeks.

Here are some snow shoveling tips to keep you safe this winter! Read on.

Table of Contents

Prep and Warm-Up Before Shoveling

To prepare the body for snow shoveling, one should start with a light cardiovascular exercise such as walking, jogging, or biking. Stretching exercises should also be done to help reduce the chance of strains or sprains. Finally, dynamic warm-up exercises should be done to further improve the elasticity of the muscles and increase the range of movement.

Focus on Proper Shoveling Techniques

Shoveling snow can be a dangerous undertaking if proper technique is not employed. It is important to remember the snow safety procedure, which is to lift correctly by bending your knees rather than your back and to move the snow in stages.

Instead of loading the shovel fully, scoop smaller amounts and move that snow in distances. Use a lightweight shovel and stand as upright as possible while shoveling.

Consider Using an Ergonomic Shovel

Ergonomic shovels are designed to minimize injury when shoveling snow. They are especially effective for those who are at risk for developing musculoskeletal disorders, like arthritis, lower back pain, and tendonitis.

These are also lighter than conventional shovels, making them easier to lift and transport. In addition, they are specifically designed to make snow removal safer, even in frigid temps, by reducing the amount of physical effort required to accomplish the chore.

Pace Yourself to Avoid Over-Exertion

If you have difficulty breathing, dizziness, chest pain, or muscle pain, stop the activity and rest. Make sure to use the proper technique when shoveling to reduce strain on your body.

Take frequent breaks and drink plenty of fluids to maintain. Remember that overexertion can contribute to serious health risks like improper cardiac and pulmonary circulation, muscle strains, and joint pains. Knowing when to take a break is the key to having smooth and safe shoveling.

Know When to Seek Professional Help

Snow shoveling can be hard work that carries with it the risk of bodily injury. It is a job that is best done with the correct technique and the appropriate tools.

To aid in a safe and successful snow shoveling experience, it is recommended to be aware of one’s own limitations. If there is more snow than what one can safely remove, it may be best to seek professional help.

Snow removal services can provide the right tools and techniques to remove the snow in a fraction of the time and will mitigate the risk of personal physical injury. As an added incentive, they are often more affordable than one may realize.