Every winter, we see patients with shoveling-induced back injuries and pain.

Shoveling snow is exhausting. It can be pretty tough on your body, especially when it’s wet and icy.

When you mix improper form with a physical chore that you don’t do very often, you’re asking for trouble. As a snowy winter approaches, take a minute to brush up on tips for shoveling snow safely.

Avoid Back and Shoulder Pain When Shoveling Snow!

• Layer clothing to keep your muscles warm and flexible.

• Shoveling can strain de-conditioned muscles between your shoulders, in your upper back, lower back, buttocks and legs. So, do some warm-up stretching before you grab that shovel.

• Bend your knees and let the muscles of your legs and arms do the lifting not the back!

• Brace Your Core. A tight core will protect your back as you lift and rotate the upper body.

• Avoid whipping your back into an arched position.

• Take frequent rest breaks to take the strain off your muscles. A fatigued body is susceptible to injury!