SOMA Living February 2022

FROM THE DOCTOR Choose the Right Shovel A large metal shovel might appear to be the best tool for the job when your plan is to clear all of the snow in record time this winter, however, it will likely slow you down and may lead to a series of injuries. A plastic ergonomic shovel is worth its weight in gold. An ergonomic shovel has a small to medium bucket and its contoured design helps to keep you upright and avoid lifting with your back. Additional handles can be added to further decrease the strain on your low back by allowing you to stand up straight as your shovel. Use Proper Technique • Lift as little snow as possible. Pushing snow, rather than scooping snow will significantly reduce the level of stress on your body. • Use your legs. Because of the uneven terrain, bending at some point will likely be unavoidable. Rather than bending at your low back, bend slightly at your hips and squat down with your legs keeping your low back straight. This will take pressure off your low back and allow you to lift without straining a muscle or injuring a joint. Start Early in the Morning Shoveling the snow early, before it has had a chance to melt, re-freeze and glue itself to your walkway, will make your job much easier. Pushing two inches of dusty snow off your driveway three times is much easier than shoveling six inches of packed ice once. This will also help to avoid driving your car over the snow and packing the ice down further. Take Your Time If you are unable to get a head start on the snow as it is falling, be sure to section off your chore into small pieces that can be done in about 15-minute intervals. Shoveling non-stop for more than 30 minutes is a recipe for back pain. Taking frequent breaks will not only give you a chance to warm up, it will also help you to listen to your body and realize when you’ve over done it and it’s time to hand the shovel off to someone else. What You Need to Know Shoveling snow incorrectly is a great way to injure your low back. If searing low back pain is not something you are looking forward to, follow these simple guidelines: TIPS TO SHOVEL SNOW SAFELYWITHOUT INJURY • Purchase a medium size, plastic, ergonomic shovel • Make a plan so you only have to move snow once • Push snow rather than lifting it • Squat with your legs rather than bending your low back • Never “throw” snow, especially when it gets wet and heavy • Shovel early in the morning while the snow is still light • Take frequent breaks • If you already have a back problem, see us for a complimentary check-up with thermal imaging before it snows and get the appropriate exercises.

Meet the Natural Pain Relievers at South Orange Chiropractic Center Moving people from pain to wellness. Dr. Stephen Levine • Dr. Mark Roczey • Dr. Mark Sielski 60 First Street, South Orange, NJ 07079 973-761-0022 Go to SouthOrangeChiropractic.com to download our FREE E-book on Health and Wellness

Your full-service, any carrier shipping, printing & business services store Graphic Design, banners & more (973) 275-1144 71 S Orange Ave • South Orange, NJ 07079

Stephen Levine D.C. South Orange Chiropractic Center SouthOrangeChiropractic.com Phone: 973.761.0022 Email: Docdad230@aol.com

14 somalivingmagazine @ gmail.com

@somalivingmagazine