12/08/2025
Shovelling Snow Done Right
Winter is back! Now we have to hope for the best and prepare for the worst. It’s not uncommon to anticipate a light drizzling, only to wake up to inches of a beautiful white sea of snow.
Much like all other opposing facts about snow and it’s maintenance, shovelling can be a great workout - or it can cause some painful damage if it’s not done right. From head and neck injuries, to spinal issues, to injured ankles; the snow can be just as treacherous as it can be fun if it’s not done right.
Shovelling after a storm doesn’t have to leave you injured or sore, here are a few pointers to ensure you are doing your best to remain injury free this winter:
Warm Up a Little: Like with any form of activity, you don’t want to start with cold, tight muscles. Have a stretch before going outside, go for a little walk before shovelling. It may tack on a few minutes to your activity but it will be worth preventing months of recovery from an injury.
Stay Hydrated: People often don’t realize how easy it is to become dehydrated in the cold winter months. Yes, sweating in the sun can quickly lead to dehydration. But the cold winter air can be very dry, and although you aren’t sweating as much as you would in the sun, you’ll still sweat and require refuelling your water supply.
Wear Layers: It’s one thing to go from the car to your front door in the cold air, it’s another to be outside for an extended period of time. Wearing layers can help your muscles to remain warm, and they can be easily removed if you start to overheat.
Wear Proper Footwear: Boots or shoes with solid treads will help reduce the chances of you slipping or falling.
Use a Lightweight Shovel: It’s easy to think a bigger shovel will cover more ground, thus making shovelling a faster process. But a bigger shovel just means more weight will be added. Shovelling (or pushing) smaller/lighter amounts of snow will reduce your chances of injury. And yes, there are ergonomically correct shovels you could purchase that have a curved handle to make the process easier on your body.
And when it comes down to it, posture is everything. The same rules apply for shovelling snow as does any heavy lifting. Bend at the knees, keep your back straight, and use your arms, knees and legs to do the actual lifting motion. Avoid twisting or turning when moving snow, and it’s always a good rule of thumb to push the snow rather than the “lift and throw”.
Have Fun and Be Safe!
Now that you’ve got all the tips and tricks, go out there and enjoy our winter safely. And if you happen to develop soreness or pain after a session of shovelling, make sure you visit us for ways to remain pain and injury free.
We are here to serve the health needs of yourself and your circle of family and friends. Remember, we will always accept your referrals as members of our office.
Lucknow Chiropractic and Wellness Centre
580 Campbell St, Lucknow, Ontario
519-528-5083
www.lucknowchiropractic.com
drbrad@lucknowchiropractic.com
