02/02/2026
A few great TIP's from Ivan Kosin Neil Kosin at Brunswick Chiropractic Center of NJ
Stay safe stay warm always a free consultation.
To save your back while shoveling, prioritize pushing snow rather than lifting, use a lightweight ergonomic shovel, and lift with your legs while keeping your back straight. Avoid twisting your torso; instead, pivot your entire body, and take frequent breaks to stretch and avoid overexertion.
Key Techniques to Protect Your Back
Push, Don't Lift: Slide the shovel along the ground to move snow, which reduces spinal strain.
Use Proper Lifting Form: If you must lift, bend at your hips and knees—not your waist—and keep the shovel close to your body.
Avoid Twisting: Turn your whole body with your feet rather than twisting your spine to throw snow.
Smaller Loads: Take smaller scoops of snow to keep the weight manageable.
Handle Grip: Space your hands apart on the handle to increase leverage, with one hand close to the blade for better control.
Preparation and Safety Tips
Warm Up: Spend 5–10 minutes warming up muscles with light exercise (e.g., walking, marching in place) before starting.
Take Breaks: Stop every 10–15 minutes to rest and stretch.
Use Proper Equipment: Use a shovel with a curved handle or adjustable length to minimize bending.
Layering: If the snowfall is deep, remove it in layers rather than attempting to lift it all at once.
Shoes: Wear boots with good traction to prevent slipping.
If you have a history of back pain, consider using a snowblower or hiring a service.
Ivan Kosin, D.C.
Neil Kosin, D.C.
North Brunswick Location
Address: 1594 Route 130, Suite 2 North Brunswick, NJ 08902
Phone: (908) 753-5454 (732) 409-7774
Edison Location
Address: 976 Inman Ave, Edison, NJ 08820
Phone: (908) 753-5454 (732) 409-7774
WhipLash Cathy Restituto-Siragusa