It’s that time of year again, blankets of snow are covering the ground. Unfortunately, our driveways are covered as well.  Here are some simple tips, to help prevent those nasty aches and pains in your back resulting from snow shoveling.

1.  Choose the right shovel.  Not too big, and not too small.  Curved and/or adjustable handles can help minimize bending.

2.  Always warm up.  Move your joints and stretch our your muscles, especially your hamstring muscles.

3.  Avoid twisting.  Keep your hips and shoulders square.

4.  Take frequent breaks, at least every 10-15 minutes.

5.  Push the snow whenever possible, as opposed to throwing it.

6. Take light loads.

7.  Switch hands, to keep both sides of your body working evenly.

8. Ask for help!

If you experience any low back pain after shoveling snow, be sure to visit your Chiropractor!