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FIND A KIN
As soon as the snow arrives, the shovelling season begins. But to succeed without injury, take the time to get ready!
A lack of preparation could ruin your winter. Lower back pain, ligament injuries and joint tension are the most common problems caused by shoveling.
These injuries are often caused my muscle stiffness, static postures, overdoing it or lack of warm-up before shoveling.
Here are simple tips:
As soon as the snow arrives, the shovelling season begins. But to succeed without injury, take the time to get ready!
A lack of preparation could ruin your winter. Lower back pain, ligament injuries and joint tension are the most common problems caused by shoveling.
These injuries are often caused my muscle stiffness, static postures, overdoing it or lack of warm-up before shoveling.
Warm up
Before shoveling, it is always a good idea to perform small warm up exercises i.e. squats, shoulder circles, arm and leg swings.
"To avoid getting hurt, the trick is to start shoveling the places that require the least amount of strength in the beginning and gradually go for the heavier loads. If you have heavier snow to lift, you have to organize your shovelling areas to do it in the middle of your activity. The risk of getting hurt is greater at first because the body is not ready, and you are at risk at the end because you are tired, " your favorite kinesiologist would tell you.
Another important tip: place the shovel handle against your chest, and use the force of your body to push the shovel along the ground, do not bend your back! If your shovel is small, and you must lean, then take a break every minute to straighten your back, or walk around.
If the snow is too heavy, ask for help! Use the right shovel, that is the right height for you, in order to shovel safely.
Other tips to avoid injuries
Before you start
• Warm up by walking on the spot.
• Move slowly and stretch your neck, shoulders, wrists, back and legs.
• Perform twenty squats (sitting motion).
• Perform arm circles, leg swings, and circle your hips.
• Stretch for 20 to 30 seconds and repeat them three times before and after your activity.
While shovelling
• Do not shovel for more than two hours
• Find a comfortable position, and keep your back straight, avoid stooping, and frequent twisting
- Bend your knees if you lift snow or other heavy objects.
• Change positions regularly and take breaks.
• Organize smaller shoveling sessions on a day or weekend instead of doing everything all at once.
• Stop the activity if you feel pain.
Kinesiologists work with other health professional in an interdisciplinary approach.
For more information on safe shoveling check out the Canadian Occupational Health and Safety website:
https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/ergonomics/snow_shovelling.html
