Shoveling Can Be Dangerous to Your Health

Winter is officially upon us. That means shoveling our sidewalks and driveways. It’s a demanding task that’s responsible for a jump in heart attacks and strained backs during the winter season. “The cold air makes it harder to work and breathe, which adds extra strain on the body,” says Frank Sabo, MD, a Cleveland Clinic orthopaedic surgeon who sees patients at Lakewood Hospital, Cleveland Clinic Lorain & Cleveland Clinic Elyria.

Snow shoveling may seem like a simple task, but consider that the average shovel full is 16 pounds of snow. If you load your shovel 12 times a minute, that’s 192 pounds of snow a minute, and nearly 2,000 pounds of being lifted in just 10 minutes.

“Most of us understand that snow shoveling puts extra stress on the heart,” says Dr. Sabo. “But we tend to forget how much stress and strain it places on our backs, too.”

Dr. Sabo offers the following safe-shoveling tips: 

• Talk to your doctor about shoveling if you are inactive, have history of heart trouble or smoke. 
• Avoid caffeine or nicotine – these stimulants can increase heart rate and constrict blood vessels.
• Keep hydrated by drinking water.
• Dress in layers so you can remove a layer as needed.
• Warm up muscles by walking in place. Stretch arms and legs. 
• Use a shovel with a smaller blade so that you will lift less snow at one time. 
• Make sure your hands are at least 12 inches apart on the shovel handle. This will increase your leverage and reduce strain on your body. 
• Push the snow instead of lifting whenever possible. 
• Lift with your legs instead of your back. Bend your knees and keep your back straight. 
• Never throw snow over your shoulder. 
• If it’s a heavy snowfall, remove two inches off the top at a time. Be sure to take frequent breaks.
• If the ground is icy or slippery, throw down some salt or sand to prevent falling.
• Consider buying a snow blower. When used correctly, a snow blower will put far less strain on your back than snow shoveling. Better yet, consider hiring someone younger to do the job for you.

“Listen to your body,” says Dr. Sabo. “Take frequent breaks. Stop if you feel tired, and seek immediate assistance if you experience any kind of pain.”

Most importantly, if you are young and able bodied, remember the neighbors on your block who might not be able to remove snow from their sidewalks. A few minutes of your help can make a world of difference to their health and well being.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Sabo, or any of the highly skilled Cleveland Clinic orthopaedic surgeons, please call 440-366-9444.