Welcome to another Manitoba winter: the snow is officially here!  

The need for shoveling snow can arise both frequently and unexpectedly here in Manitoba and can interfere with what we had originally planned to do. Consequently, we face this unwanted chore unprepared and, more important in a hurry to get it over with as fast as possible. If we are not careful, we could experience cold exposure, fatigue, muscular strains and more serious injury, particularly to the lower back. Using simple and appropriate snow shoveling techniques will go a long way in preventing unnecessary pain and injury.

Here are some TIPS on SAFE snow shoveling…

• Warm up your muscles – especially if you are shoveling first thing in the morning.
• Be prepared – use an appropriate size shovel.  Do not use a shovel that can hold more snow than you can handle.
• Try an ergonomic shovel.
• Shovel snow when it first falls – lighter snow means less weight to push.
• Wear gloves that provide you with a good grip on the handle of the shovel.  If your hands slip, you will be required to use more grip force to hold the shovel.
• Alternate your hand positions on the handle to spread the work between both arms.
• Do not pile snow above shoulder height.  Lifting above shoulder height greatly increases the risk of injury and can also lead to safety issues due to limited visibility in small spaces / driveways.
• And perhaps most importantly, PUSH, don’t LIFT!  Check out this short video on shovelling technique: Shoveling snow

For more useful information on preventing back injuries from snow shoveling, check out this Spine Health blog: Snow Shoveling Techniques to Prevent Low Back Injuries, or talk to your Physiotherapist at St. Vital Physiotherapy in Winnipeg 431-449-5282.