Snow Angels
After virtually every major snow storm, we get patients seeking relief from back and joint pain brought on by shoveling snow. It’s a common problem.
According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission more than 70,000 people required a doctor’s visit in 2008 due to shoveling-related injuries. A quarter of those visited the Emergency Room and approximately 900 were admitted to a hospital. The number one injury is low back strain with a more severe injury due to a herniated disc.
Snow shoveling requires a weight lifting component as well as aerobic. Combined with frigid temperatures, which constricts blood flow in your arteries and vessels, your heart can quickly become compromised as blood supply goes down and energy required goes up. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention discovered that heart disease related deaths rose 22 percent in the week following a snow storm. Men were responsible for the majority of numbers in the spike, which may be explained by shoveling snow.
Important Tips for Shoveling
Warm-up indoors prior to going outside to shovel. If your lifestyle is more sedentary, consider hiring someone to shovel for you or ask a neighbor. Dress properly by wearing layers. Stay Warm! Do not catch a chill. If you become damp or wet and feel chilled then it is time to change clothes to keep warm. Also wear appropriate footwear that provides warmth, dryness and best traction.
Lift snow in small amounts using mostly leg strength and being most careful NOT to twist your body or back. Do not over-exert yourself by doing it all at once.
Use the right tools by choosing a shovel with a grip that takes the most stress off of your back. If using powered equipment, be sure you follow all safety protocols.
If you feel sore the day after shoveling, be sure to schedule an appointment with your Acupuncturist. Muscle tightness and strain can be relieved more quickly with immediate care. If untreated, weakness along the meridians (energy channels), especially in the neck and back can lead to a frail immune system and subsequent common cold.
Evelynne Toth, L.Ac
Founder & Owner
