Hazards of snow shoveling:
(1) cardiac ischemia
(2) peripheral ischemia
(3) joint and back injury
(4) dehydration
(5) cold injury
(6) overuse injury
(7) falls
(8) worsening of asthma (cold or exercise induced)
Risk for cardiac ischemia and peripheral vascular disease:
(1) smoking
(2) history of myocardial ischemia
(3) obesity
(4) hypertension
(5) diabetes
(6) peripheral gangrene
Risk for joint and back injury:
(1) twisting motions while under load
(2) history of back and joint injury
(3) heavy shovel loads
Risk for dehydration:
(1) low ambient humidity
(2) failure to keep hydrated
Risk for cold injury:
(1) sweating
(2) exposed skin
(3) peripheral vascular disease
(4) Raynaud's
(5) high wind
(6) low external temperatures
Risk of overuse injury:
(1) being out of shape
(2) over-exertion
Recommendations:
(1) Dress in layers.
(2) Do not smoke or drink alcohol.
(3) Warm up muscles before starting.
(4) Use a small shovel, especially with wet snow.
(5) Avoid twisting as much as possible. Lift and turn in a careful sequence of steps.
(6) Try to push the snow as much as possible.
(7) Take frequent breaks.
(8) Keep well hydrated.
(9) Stop at the first sign of pain or discomfort.
(10) Use de-icing compounds or sand to help control ice.
(11) If you have pre-existing medical conditions get clearance from your physician first.
