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Snow Shoveling
By Dr. Narinder Saini. MD Cardiologist
If you can get someone else to look after this
chore that would be great but if you want a little
fresh air and exercise, it is a good idea to follow
a few recommendations.
1.Warm up you body by doing a few stretches to limber
your muscles. If you do not, injuries such as minor
ache and pains, pulled muscles or even fatal heart
attacks can result. The range of motion used in
shoveling puts a lot of stress on your body, which
increases the heart rate and blood pressure.
2. If you experience any of these symptoms please
stop.
*Heavy sweating *Shortness of breath *Or pain anywhere
Every year people have hurt themselves shoveling
snow. A simple slip and fall for a person with a
previous back injury can be disastrous.
3. Choose appropriate clothing. You do not want
to get too cold or too warm. It is best to dress
in layers then you can either add or take off a
layer. The clothes should be able to breathe and
be made of natural fibers such as wool or cotton.
This lets your body moisture escape. Also, remember
gloves, hat and boots that will grip slippery surfaces.
4. Tips for Shoveling snow.
*Use a smaller shovel. This will force you to have
a lighter load.
*Take frequent breaks, even if only for a couple
of minutes. Push the snow instead of lifting.
*Drink fluids to stay hydrated.
*Avoid twisting and straining your back and wrists.
If you find this task of shoveling to overwhelming
then you may have to hire someone or buy a snow
blower. It is always better to be safe than sorry
when it comes to your health.
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