Is there a proper way to shovel snow?

About Dr. Chris Oh

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1/27/2012
Is there a proper way to shovel snow?

Every year I see several young, healthy people who sprain their back, and sometimes even herniate their lumbar spine from shoveling snow. The most important thing to remember when shoveling snow is to make sure that your back is always kept straight as you bend your knees to pick up the snow then throw out. Using your knees will prevent excessive torque from developing in your lower back which causes back sprains and in severe cases, disc herniation.