Winter is here and it's time to break out the hats, gloves, snow boots and shovels.  Snow shoveling is a job most of us would rather ignore, or have someone else do for us.  If you're like me and have to do it yourself, here are a few basic tips to minimize the strain on your body.

First and foremost . . . DO NOT over exert yourself!  It is best to use a steady pace when shoveling.  Getting in a hurry can increase your risk of falling and substantially increase the strain on your cardio-vascular system.

Second . . . make sure that you maintain good posture.  Avoid the tendency to bend forward and lean into the shovel, which can increase low back strain and your risk of falling.  Instead, push the snow using your hips and legs for power and the upper body for control.

Third . . . make sure that you use safe techniques.  Avoid repeated twisting of the upper body against the weight and resistance of the snow, which can cause strain to the low back.  It is safer to lift and pivot through your hips and feet while maintaining an upright posture.  An excellent way to facilitate your "core" muscles is to keep your abdominal muscles contracted while shoveling, which in turn minimizes strain on the low back and aids in the prevention of low back strain injuries from lifting, twisting, or pushing snow.

Okay . . . no more excuses . . . get out there and shovel off that driveway!

Yours in health,

Matt