November 03rd, 2014

Every year there is a learning curve as the autumn wanes and we remember what it's like to drive on slick roads, maneuver in the darkened mornings, and shovel snow.

Spine-Health.com has a tutorial for snow shoveling. (I know, who needs instructions for shoveling?!  Apparently, quite a few of us. It's a common injury source among my patients.)

The high points are summarized here:

• Get an ergonomic shovel. Those bendy handles can shift the load off of your back.
• Warm up first. Yes, really. Get the blood flowing to those muscles before you ask so much of them.
• Try to scoot the snow rather than lift it.
• If you must lift, remember the load is as heavy as a small child. Square your shoulders and hips and lift with your legs. Then don't twist your trunk! Pivot your whole body instead.

If you do tweak your back while shoveling or any other activity, come see me. Acupuncture for back pain is highly effective. It usually requires three sessions.