Shoveling Snow in Kansas City
Winter is upon us in Kansas City!
Winter is upon us in Kansas City once again! With that comes the unenviable task of shoveling snow. What can you do to protect your body this winter season? Let’s dig into some specifics:
What is the best posture for shoveling snow?
Stand with your feet shoulder width apart. Bend at your knees and not with your back. Ideally your back should look similar to your regular standing posture, from the waist up. It may lean forward slightly, from the knee and hip bend, but try to keep that natural curve of your back. Keep your elbows close to your body and switch which side you are shoveling with. Practicing good posture makes for a happy spine!
How can you avoid injuries while shoveling snow?
One factor many do not consider is how physically demanding snow shoveling is. Like any other intensive physical activity, you should warm up and stretch. Use a lightweight shovel and try pushing snow instead of lifting it up. The lifting action puts more stress on the back and shoulders. Take short breaks every 10 to 20 minutes, but most importantly, listen to your body.
What are common snow shoveling mistakes?
As previously mentioned, don’t lift the snow. In particular, do not bend and twist, while lifting snow. If you are hurting, take a break. Don’t push through the discomfort or try to rush through your work. If something feels wrong, tune into what your body is telling you. Consider using different equipment if it isn’t supporting safe snow shoveling.
How does chiropractic care help after shoveling?
Chiropractic can help areas of the body move better after shoveling. Intensive activities in particular can cause faulty movement in the spine. These can cause pain, or can sit undetected until the next moment of big activity arrives. If you find yourself with questions or pain after shoveling, we are happy to help! Our job is to help those joints of your back to move like they were designed to. Many of our patients live in the Waldo, Brookside and Prairie Village areas. Feel free to call or set up an appointment!
What should I use when shoving snow?
As anyone in Kansas City can tell you, dress in layers. It’s easy to go from freezing cold to blisteringly hot quickly. Wear shoes that have good grip on the tread.
Should I shovel early or wait until it stops snowing?
Shovel early. The less snow you need to move in a specific moment, the less stress your body is undergoing. You may end up shoveling a few more times by the end of the snowfall, but the stresses on your back will be much less intense, which helps to avoid injury.
Use these tips to protect your back this winter! Happy holidays!
