Glenview Chiropractor shares safe snow shoveling tips.

It’s snow shoveling season and in preparation of winter weather conditions, Glenview Chiropractor Dr. Nick Kuennen advises on snow shoveling safety tips.

“Residents venturing out to shovel snow this winter should take precautions that could prevent injury,” says Licensed Glenview Chiropractor Dr. Nick Kuennen, Founding Chiropractor of The Wellness Source.

Before setting out to shovel your way out, Dr. Kuennen recommends the following snow shoveling techniques to help avoid strain and injury.

Prepare with the following:

Choose the right shovel. A shovel with an ergonomically curved and/or adjustable handle will help prevent injury.

Warm up. Take about 10 minutes to get your blood flowing with some light cardiovascular exercise like jogging in place, and be sure to stretch your muscles.

Push snow, as opposed to lifting it, if possible.

If You Must Lift Snow, Use Proper Ergonomic Lifting Techniques:

• Always face the snow you intend to remove, keeping your hips and shoulders square.
• Squat by bending your knees to lower your stance, and use your leg muscles, rather than your back, to lift. If your legs are tired, you’re doing it right!
• Shovel small amounts frequently, instead of large amounts all at once.
• Keep one hand as close to the blade as comfortably possible, while placing the other hand on the handle.
• Walk to the location you wish to deposit the snow (rather than reaching or tossing it).
• If you absolutely must throw snow, don’t twist your body to do so. Instead, step into the direction that you want the snow to go to, keeping your feet facing in the direction you are throwing.

More Tips:
Make sure to take frequent breaks, about every 15 minutes, to keep from overdoing it. Stretch your arms, shoulders, and back, and remember to drink plenty of water. As with any vigorous exercise, it’s important to stay hydrated. Also, if at all possible, don’t let the snow pile up before you start shoveling. It’s far easier to move small amounts of snow frequently than it is to move a heavy load all at once. So shovel early and often. And then head inside to enjoy a nice cup of hot chocolate. You’ve earned it! Check out The Wellness Source on Facebook for the latest health tips and healthy recipes at Facebook.com/TWSGlenview.

Dr. Nick Kuennen is the Founding Chiropractor/Co-Owner of The Wellness Source, Glenview’s premier center for Chiropractic and Energetic Wellness. The Wellness Source is a revolutionary healing space that provides unparalleled results with honesty & integrity. The healing and restorative chiropractic car they offer emphasizes the importance of improving health, in an effort to reduce pain, illness and imbalances in the body. For more information, TWSChiro.com. Dr. Nick Kuennen is accepting new patients and can be reached at (224) 413-3500. Most major health insurance plans and Medicare accepted.