It’s that time of year when shoveling snow becomes a regular routine for some of us. The white stuff looks beautiful coming down, and lends a lovely sugar coating to bare trees, but shoveling it is a chore, and if you’re not in shape the task can be downright dangerous. Muscle strains, sprains, and spasms, and even heart problems can occur. So before you lift that shovel, learn how you can prevent hurting yourself.
1. Take your time
If you have to drive to work in the morning, get up early enough to be able to take your time shoveling. Ease into the job by stretching and warming up first because sudden physical exertion in cold weather is bad for the heart and other muscles. Take frequent breaks to relieve muscle strain. Get tired and you’re asking for injury, warns the American Chiropractic Association.
