With winter and snow upon is we have to get out and clean up the stuff. Sure it is usually not too bad doing it, but what about the next day. Sore low back and a stiff shoulder sound familiar? These aches and pains are not something to take lightly. [quote]These aches and pains are not something to take lightly. [/quote]
Making sure to use good form is critical when shoveling snow, but it may not always be enough. I’m not going to argue with making sure to use good form should not be done because it should. Keep that back in neutral. The problem arises when people may not know how to keep their back in that neutral position. It seems obvious, but knowing the difference between and bend and a squat as well as a twist can make a big difference when shoveling this winter.
What about if your back is too stiff to let your shoulder move properly? Now take a few hundred shovel loads of snow and those shoulders have taken a beating too. Maybe you’ll bounce back in a few days, but what if your muscles are just weak and all of this increased work set you up for a bunch of problems.
Now for a few tips:
- Chunk down the snow and don’t move too much in one shovel full
- You can always ask for help
- Take your time/break as needed
- Make sure you have your doctor’s permission (this is just like any exercise program)
- Keep warm
If you do end up with any problems we can get you back on track, often times that day or the next. Remember that all of our physical therapists at Robbins Rehabilitation have their Direct Access License. Click our link on Direct Access:https://www.robbinsptwest.com/direct-access/ and we can help get you pain free.
