Snow Day: 10 Tips for Safe Shoveling

Snow is fun for sledding and building snowmen, but shoveling can be hard on your health. Here’s the scoop on safe shoveling from Dr. Brian Paris at Advanced Spine & Wellness Center in Rockville, MD.

Dr. Paris warns that the most common back injuries occur when you bend and lift at the waist. Avoid putting too much strain on your lower body and incorporate your legs to lift each shovelful. It’s important stretch and warm up for at least five to ten minutes to get your body ready. He recommends a light exercise that incorporates your whole body such as jumping jacks, push ups, or lunges with a twist. Shoulder circles and warming your hips through lunges from the front, side and back can make a difference. Dr. Paris also reminds us to switch hands when shoveling. If you are shoveling a driveway, walkway or stairs, switch the hand at the front of the shovel every five to ten shovels.

Have a safe snow day!