BOWIE, Md., Dec. 06, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- With winter weather right around the corner, Taber Chiropractic is sharing tips to help patients avoid back pain when shoveling snow. According to Bowie MD chiropractors Dr. Diane and Ted Taber, each year thousands of individuals experience lower back pain, shoulder pain and neck pain from improper posture when shoveling snow. The chiropractors’ tips include using proper lifting techniques, using the shovel to push snow aside rather than lifting the snow and taking frequent breaks when shoveling to minimize muscle strain.
Taber Chiropractic recently announced the top four tips for reducing the risk for back injury and pain when shoveling snow. These tips include practicing proper posture/lifting techniques, warming up in advance, shoveling consistently throughout the day and taking frequent breaks to minimize excessive back strain. “Shoveling snow is a lot of physical work,” said Bowie chiropractor Dr. Diane Taber. “I always recommend that patients warm up first before shoveling, even if that’s just a quick walk down the street. Anything that gets the blood flowing and muscles warm is good.”
The chiropractors also advise shoveling snow early in the day or as early as possible following a snowfall.
“For the most part, shoveling snow is rarely considered a fun activity. However, the longer you put it off, the worse it can become,” said Dr. Ted Taber. “When snow piles up and forms a heavy snow pack with ice on top, it becomes increasingly difficult and physically strenuous to move this snow. Shoveling throughout the day prevents snow from piling up.”
"Proper posture is important when shoveling snow," says Dr. Diane Taber. She recommends standing in a squat stance: bending the knees, standing with the feet hip-width apart and keeping the back straight. “Avoid bending at the waist and use the legs for strength when lifting,” said Dr. Diane Taber. “I recommend shoveling with one hand on the handle and the other hand as close to the shovel blade as possible to evenly distribute weight and support the load.”
Dr. Ted Taber also cautions patients to avoid twisting or throwing snow over the shoulder when shoveling. Doing so can put unnecessary strain on the back. He says, “When you move your nose, move your toes to avoid twisting stress.” Individuals who experience back, neck or shoulder pain for more than 48-hours after shoveling snow may benefit from chiropractic care.
“While it’s normal to feel stiff and sore after engaging in strenuous exercise, lingering pain should be checked out by a qualified medical professional,” said Dr. Ted Taber. “Taking prompt action to correct a musculoskeletal injury early on will reduce the risk for long-term health problems.”
Located in the heart of Bowie, MD, Taber Chiropractic provides comprehensive chiropractic care services including drug-free back pain management, auto accident injury care, physiotherapy, orthotics and spinal/postural screenings. For more information on chiropractic care and back pain relief, visit www.taberchiropractic.com or call 301-352-4500.