Many people look forward to the first snow that elegantly drapes the trees.
However, after weeks or months of snow, heavy snow, blowing snow, snow blizzards or snowdrifts, your eager attitude may change. With some parts of the United States averaging approximately 10 feet of snowfall, it is not surprising to learn that many people suffer from muscle fatigue, low back strain and pain, and even spinal fractures during the winter season. Some of these injuries result from excessive stress to spinal structures through shoveling incorrectly and others by slip and fall accidents. Let's face it, shoveling snow is hard work and if not done correctly, it can put severe strain on your back. With proper preparation and a few easy steps, shoveling snow can be a very healthy, fun, and safe form of winter exercise. Pick the Right ShovelUsing the right shovel can save your back from injury and pain. Be sure that your shovel is lightweight and has a curved handle. These new ergonomic shovels allow you to keep your back straight when shoveling. It is also important to make sure the shovel is not too tall for you, as this will result in an awkward grip. Similarly, if the shovel is too small this can cause you to bend over more, putting strain on your back. Sometimes a smaller blade is better than a larger blade on a shovel. Unfortunately you will not be able to shovel as much snow at once, but it helps avoid the risk of trying to pick up too heavy a load with a larger blade. The smaller blade will hold less weight, which puts less strain on your spine. Once you have chosen your shovel, you may even want to consider spraying a bit of silicon lubricant on the blade, as this can potentially help keep the snow from sticking to the shovel. Maintain Proper Lifting TechniquesBefore beginning to shovel snow, do your back a favor by warming up. Once you have thoroughly warmed-up your body, begin shoveling, but pace yourself. Shoveling small amounts of snow frequently is less strenuous than shoveling a large pile at once. If the snow is deep, begin by removing a few inches at a time off the top of the snow, rather than attempting to shovel the full depth at once. Whenever possible, push the snow to one side rather than lifting it, as this will also prevent straining your muscles. When shoveling, maintain proper ergonomic lifting techniques:* Always face towards the object you intend to lift.* Bend at the hips, not the lower back, and push your chest out, pointing forward.* Keep the loads light* If you must lift a shovel full of snow, grip the shovel with one hand as close to the blade as comfortably possible and the other hand on the handle.* Avoid twisting your back to move the snow to a new location* Keep the heaviest part close to your body* Walk to the new location to deposit snow, rather than reaching and tossing.Following these tips can help to make snow removal less of a strain on your lower back. This winter season keep these guidelines in mind to lessen your chances of injury. If you are unable to shovel, contact your Chicago snow removal company for a free estimate and help for snow outside your business or home.
Rosario Gambino & Son Landscaping, Chicago Landscapers, has been servicing the landscaping and snow plowing needs of the Chicagoland area and surrounding suburbs since 1986. With over 20 years of service, Rosario Gambino & Son Landscaping offers thorough landscaping and Chicago snow removal.
