Do Ergonomic Snow Shovels Work?

Ergonomic Design

• Ergonomics is the science of designing equipment to place the least strain on the body, reduce fatigue and prevent injury. Whereas regular snow shovels are often made of steel, ergonomic snow shovels are made with more lightweight materials, such as aluminum. Ergonomic shovels have bent handles, allowing you to grip the shovel without bending over, reducing the strain on your back. Many also have padded grips that are more comfortable on your hands.

Shopping for Shovels

• When you buy an ergonomic show shovel, try it out for size. Different shovels have the bend in the handle in different places. Shorter people will need a different bend than taller ones. Place both hands on the shovel, and mime the act of shoveling snow. You should be able to rest the blade on the ground and shove it forward without bending your back.

Shoveling Tips

• Physical therapist Susan Wainwright of University of the Sciences in Philadelphia recommends ergonomic snow shovels to help prevent injury. Even using one of these shovels, you should stop shoveling every 15 minutes or so to stretch and walk around. Lift using the muscles in your legs, not the muscles of your back and shoulders. Bend your knees as you raise the shovel full of snow. If you feel a strain, don't fill the shovel so full. Turn, don't twist to the side, and don't throw the snow over your shoulder.

Precautions

• Dress in layers to shovel, and remove top layers as you warm up. If you have heart problems or don't exercise regularly, check with your doctor before shoveling snow. Shoveling puts a strain on your heart and could lead to a heart attack. Even though it's cold out, you still lose moisture through perspiration. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated as you work.