Snow shoveling is good exercise, but take precautions

USE CAUTION WHEN SNOW SHOVELING

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Dec 09, 2009 4:30 AM - Winter is here, and with it comes increasing chances of snow, sleet, freezing rain – and snow shoveling injuries.
Here are some snow shoveling tips from Carl Mailhot, Director of ECRC Physical Therapy.

* Shoveling is exercise, so treat it that way. Take a few minutes to stretch before, during and after shoveling snow.
* Use a shovel with a bent handle to reduce forward bending and reduce stress on the back.
* Bend your knees and use your legs as much as possible when lifting.
* If the snow is light enough, push it rather than scoop it.
* Remain flat-footed to avoid slips and falls.
* Take frequent breaks to stretch and rest.

You can burn lots of calories shoveling snow, but you also put yourself at risk for heart attack, frostbite and severe muscle strains.

It is important to dress in layers and cover your head with a hat, your neck with a scarf and your hands with warm gloves.

There are many other common sense precautions to take:

* Don’t eat a large meal before shoveling.
* Don’t smoke.
* Stay hydrated.
* Start slowly and develop a steady pace. If the snow is wet and heavy, tackle it in layers.
* If you have had a heart attack or a back injury, or if you are overweight and don’t exercise, talk to your doctor before you try to shovel. If you become short of breath, experience chest tightness or tingling in your arms, stop immediately and seek medical attention if the symptoms persist.