Heavy Snowfall Requires Careful Shoveling
By Brandi Goodman
Snow is a lot heavier than you'd think. Fill up your shovel and you're bound to hurt yourself if you aren't taking proper precautions. Snow-shoveling can quickly lead to pain and problems if you aren't following strict guidelines when tackling the task. Heavy snowfall requires careful shoveling at all times.
Choose an Ergonomic Shovel
You may be used to using the same type of shovel that's been around for years. The single handle with the straight rod attached to the scoop may be the common option, but it isn't the best one. Choose an ergonomic shovel instead that improves how you use it. A curved handle can better help you maneuver the tool without straining your body. You can also look for an adjustable option if you're too short or too tall for the one you have.
Scoop Up Small Amounts
Never fill your shovel with a full amount of snow. When it's all packed in, the weight of the snow on your shovel can reach up to 25 pounds. You don't need to lift this weight over and over as you try to finish your chore. Scoop up small amounts at a time so you aren't placing too much weight on your arms and hurting yourself in the process.
Warm Up First
Before you even think about what shovel you'll be using or how much to gather at once, you need to prepare your body. Warming up first will ensure your joints are loose and flexible and you'll be able to accomplish the task at hand. Stiff joints can make it hard to move, especially in the cold. Stretching out your body and even taking a short walk to get your blood flowing first can really help.
Layer Your Clothes
You'll need to warm up in another way as well. Make sure you layer your clothes and put plenty on to keep yourself from freezing. The cold can impact your joints and make it hard to get your shoveling accomplished. With a hat, gloves, jacket, and scarf over your body parts, you'll be warm enough to get it handled. If you get too warm in the process, the layers mean you can take a few things off and still be kept covered with what you have underneath.
Shoveling snow can be a dangerous task if you aren't careful. The chore is already bad enough to get done frequently throughout the winter when you want to get out the door. Hurt yourself in the process and you'll be even more likely to despise the winter assignment.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Pickerington, Ohio.