Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow! If you live in Mooresville, NC, then you definitely had some snow this weekend. Which means, you will definitely be shoveling snow this weekend. I moved up to Mooresville, NC, a little over 10 years ago from Florida. We were really excited for those first few snow falls. I remember waking up early and heading outside with both of my daughters. We would build a snowman or throw some snowballs and had just an absolute blast. I don’t get out there with quite as much zeal these days, but I must admit, I find the snow absolutely beautiful. Fortunately, we only get a little bit of snow every so often, so it doesn’t become a true hindrance around here. If we had a lot of snow, all the time, I’m not sure if I could handle it.
Knowing that the snow will melt away in a couple of days we don’t have a lot of things that we need to do to prepare for, or take care of, once the snow arrives. Shoveling snow from the driveway and sidewalks might be the only laborious chore we have to undertake. Fortunately, the snow yesterday was not too icy and it was a lot easier shoveling snow than in years past. I remember shoveling snow the past couple of years and the driveway and sidewalk were almost completely ice. Shoveling snow can be a lot of strain on your back, especially if you are doing it the wrong way.
Tips on how to save your back while shoveling snow:
DO NOT round your back – this will put pressure on your discs, and with an extended load (i.e. snow in shovel) you are almost guaranteed to hurt something
ALTERNATE your hand positions – if you keep your hands in the same position the entire time, you will overwork those muscles. Switching your hands will allow the muscles on both sides of your back to work the same amount
ALTERNATE sides of the shovel – as with the hand position, you will want to alternate which side you throw the snow. If you are constantly shoveling snow and throwing it to your right, you will overwork one side of your body
USE YOUR LEGS – yes, we have heard this time and time again – lift with your legs. When shoveling snow, the piles can get heavy. Do not round your back, keep it straight, then use your legs and throw the snow to one side or the other.
I hope these tips on shoveling snow will help. If there is anything we can do for you, please call our office. Take care, enjoy the snow, and have a blessed weekend.
Dr Spencer Charlet
Mooresville Chiropractor
704-663-7625
