Show #421 Airing Sunday, 2/17/08
Winter snow shoveling is a typical Northeast Ohio pain in the neck. And if you're not careful, it can turn into a pain in the back, too. Here to make sure we come out of the winter standing tall and pain-free is Dr. Noel Abood from the Solon Spine and Wellness Center.
Question: What mistakes do people make when they're shoveling snow?
Answer: First, they underestimate the stress that snow shoveling puts on your heart. There was a study where 20-30-year-olds were told to run as long as they could and were monitored. The next day, they were asked to shovel wet snow-and reached the same point as their run in a mere 10 minutes.
For that reason, some authorities say that those older than 50 should simply not shovel snow at all, rather using a snow blower or ordering a service.
People tend to jump out of bed and start shoveling without warming up-going from 0 to 100 quickly.
You have to make sure you stay hydrated while shoveling, especially if you're out there for a long time.
And, of course, shoveling snow can affect your back, as your discs are not made to twist and turn in that fashion.
Question: How do we shovel snow so that it's safe for our back?
Answer: Shovel early and shovel often. You don't want to wait until the snow is heavy to start shoveling.
When shoveling, push the snow instead of scooping it and throwing it over your shoulder. That twisting motion is what often causes injury.
Question: Is there a certain type of shovel we should be using?
Answer: There are new, ergonomic shovels [show] with s-shaped handles that are helpful. The handles keep your hands close to the core of your body, and this is better bio mechanically for your spine.
Question: What if you do hurt your back while shoveling snow?
Answer: Rest and ice your back immediately. Try over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen. 80% of back pain from shoveling should go away with this level of treatment.
Question: And if the pain doesn't subside?
Answer: If the pain remains, or if it extends to the tailbone, that could be a sign of a more serious spine injury. At that point, further treatment, such as lumbar decompression, might be needed.
We've talked about lumbar decompression before-the patient is put on a table that mimics 0 gravity. Their spine is pulled and stretched in this atmosphere, helping to re-grow the discs of the back.
We've also shown a decompression belt on the show. This belt may be worn while shoveling snow to help prevent further injury.
Don't fall "back" into bad shoveling habits. For more information on safe shoveling or to learn more about treating back pain, call the Solon Spine and Wellness Center at the number that's next. My thanks to Dr. Noel Abood.
