By: centraljersey.com
With a blizzard having hit New Jersey, the Association of NJ Chiropractors seeks to ensure that individuals properly prepare themselves to prevent injury from shoveling out from the next snow event.
– Listen to weather forecasts so you can rise early and have time to shovel before work; rushing the job can lead to injury.
– Wear layers of clothing to keep your muscles warm and flexible.
– Do some stretching before you grab the shovel.
– For big jobs, use a motorized snow blower. If you shovel by hand, use a lightweight, ergonomically-designed shovel to reduce back strain.
– When you do shovel, push the snow straight ahead. Don’t try to throw it; walk it to the snow bank. Avoid sudden twisting and turning.
– Bend your knees to lift when shoveling. Let the muscles of your legs and arms do the work,not your back.
– Take frequent rest breaks to take the strain off your muscles. A fatigued body asks for injury.
– Stop if you feel chest pain, or get excessively tired or have shortness of breath. You mayrequire immediate professional care.
– If you feel sore after shoveling, apply an ice bag to the affected area for 20 minutes, then take it off for a couple of hours. Repeat a couple of times each day over the next day or two.
For more information on chiropractic care, visit www.njchiropractors.com.

