Snow relocation technique.

In some parts of the USA the average amount of snowfall approaches 120 inches! That translates into 120 opportunities for suffering a snow removal malady including muscle fatigue, lower back injury, spinal damage, and even spinal fractures during the seemingly never ending winter season. Many of these snow removal aches, pains, and injuries are the result of excessive stress to spinal, muscular structures, and  from slips and falls. According to research completed at Cornell University’s ergonomic department The L5/S1 disc has been identified as the weakest link in the body segment chain. The most severe injuries and pain are likely to occur in the back region.” Just as we advocate for ladder safety when cleaning the gutters or working on the roof, what can be done to prevent injuries when relocating snow after a storm?
Keep in mind at the outset that snow relocation programs can be compared to resistance training , and in some cases, the aerobic aspect of this activity is similar to a workout involving running or skipping rope. So, in the interest of safety and a successful battle with the fallen snow please take a moment to consider the following tips:

1. If you experience pain or discomfort of any kind, stop at once and seek assistance.

2. Drink plenty of water during the event(s) and take frequent breaks. Remember, snow relocation is a very rigorous physical activity that can place you in harms way.

3. Beware of icy surfaces under the snow and avoid them if you are unable to get solid footing to remove the snow. Failure to do this often results in a slip and fall situation resulting in injury.

4. Make sure you are dressed properly and be sure to understand that much of the heat in your body exits through the head.

5. Shovel selection is very important. Choose one with a curved handle to help you to keep your back straighter reducing spinal stress. A smaller blade can help with this as well because a smaller load of snow usually weighs less and thus puts less strain on the spine. Finally, there are shovels made expressly for pushing snow so you can avoid lifting a single flake of snow. Once you have your shovel, spray a bit of silicon lubricant on the blade in order to help keep the snow from sticking to the shovel.

6. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, “If you must lift the snow, lift it properly. Squat with your legs apart, knees bent and back straight. Lift with your legs. Do not bend at the waist. Scoop small amounts of snow into the shovel and walk to where you want to dump it. Holding a shovelful of snow with your arms outstretched puts too much weight on your spine. Never remove deep snow all at once; do it piecemeal. Shovel and inch or two; then take another inch off. Rest and repeat if necessary.” Put simply, go forward with your snow. It may take longer but it will save you from some potential aches and pains.

Finally, a snow blower, if you have access to one can render most of these risks moot but it still needs to be used properly. If used properly it will do all of the work for you.

A snowblower is a terrific piece of machinery, but if it’s not used correctly, you can strain or injure your back. Snowblowers are designed to remove snow at a particular rate of speed. Pushing or forcing the equipment to go faster is defeating its purpose —to do the work for you!

Winter is far from over and the snow is sure to keep falling in many places. Keep your snow relocation efforts safe and you will have a much more enjoyable winter experience.