A big snowstorm is coming our way, and odds are you’re going to need to bust out the shovel or snowblower when it’s all said and done. Moving all that snow is never easy, but it can be an even bigger headache if you’re also dealing with chronic pain. Today, we’re going to share a few tips for how to effectively move snow without triggering a chronic pain flareup.

Chronic Pain and Shoveling

Keep these tips in mind the next time you have to head out and shovel snow:

• Warm up your body before you head outside. Do 5-10 minutes of light stretching exercises to ensure your muscles are warm before heading outside.

• Grab a friend. The more people helping to move snow, the quicker the job will get done.

• Take frequent breaks. Don’t try to get everything done in one session, because if you overwork your muscles, you’re more likely to trigger a chronic pain flareup.

• Practice proper lifting techniques. Try to push the snow off your driveway instead of lifting and throwing it, as that can lead to back problems. When bending, bend at the knees, not the waist.

• Stay warm. Cold weather can trigger inflammation in our joints. Put on enough layers so that you’ll stay warm when shoveling, and head inside to heat up if you start to get cold.

• Take an anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen prior to heading outside to shovel to help keep inflammation at bay.

• Invest in a snowblower. They can be pretty pricey, but if they help prevent painful flareups, they are well worth the investment.

• Talk to your doctor. If you are dealing with a specific chronic pain condition, talk to your doctor to see if they have any other specific tips for preventing chronic pain flareups while you’re removing snow from your driveway and sidewalks.

Stay safe this weekend, and follow these tips before you head outside to shovel!