6 Ways To Protect Your Neck and Back While Shoveling Snow This Winter

6 Ways To Protect Your Neck and Back While Shoveling Snow This Winter

A big storm is coming! Connecticut is bracing for the biggest storm it’s seen in three years!

As winter storms continue to threaten the East Coast, snow is an obstacle to many Americans daily. Here are some of our best tips on how to avoid risking a back injury while shoveling snow.

First, you should start with a quality shovel with an ergonomic design. Choose a push blade with wheels, a snow scoop, or a push snow shovel. A traditional snow shovel will put too much pressure on your neck muscles due to the “scooping” motion, whereas pushing will not. A snow blower is always the best choice for deep snow.

Second, try shoveling when there are no more than two to four inches on the ground. I know, this means you will need to shovel more, but the snow will be easier to lift, and this movement will be healthier on your back. Spraying the shovel with a silicone or WD 40 is also another favorite trick of mine and will help move the shovel through the snow quicker as well as keep the shovel clean between passes.

Third, always shovel loose snow. Hard-packed and frozen snow will require tremendous strain on your muscles and be too heavy. Take care to shovel small amounts of snow, so as not to overwhelm yourself.

Fourth, shovel the snow by pushing it rather than bending down to scoop it; try pushing the snow to the side of a driveway or walkway.

Fifth, try placing one hand on the shovel mid-shaft to make it easier to handle and keep the loaded shovel as close to your body as possible.

And last, but certainly not least, always think about your body’s posture when shoveling. Don’t reach or stretch to reach the area you’re focusing on; instead, move closer to it. Always bend at the knees and hips, keeping your back and neck straight, and let your weight help you push the snow.

This storm looks like a big one!

It’s very common for our office to become quite busy with lower back injuries following a storm like this or even smaller ones. Hopefully, these little reminders will help you through without injury. Snow shoveling is tough. Remember to take your time, don’t dress too heavy, and take frequent breaks. We’re here if you need us. Stay safe!