LIMA, OH (WLIO) - While there is some fun to be had out in the snow, unfortunately, there is some work to be done with a snow shovel. So, what is the safest way to clear your drive or sidewalk?
Doctors say they see a lot of people who have strains and sprains after tackling a snow shoveling job because they are doing a more strenuous workout that they are not used to. With the heavy snow that we are expecting, it might be good to remember to lift with your legs and not your back to help prevent future complications. But if you start getting pains that radiate down your legs you could have a severe back injury. But doctors really want to warn people that snow shoveling could lead to something more serious, a heart attack.
"It's a lot of very hard work. We are outside in the cold, so we don't overheat and sometimes we overdo it," says Dr. Walter Elrod, Lima Memorial Health System. "I would encourage anybody that has chest pains or short of breath to take a break and pace themselves before they shovel their whole driveway."
Dr. Elrod says it could be a good idea to take frequent breaks while you are shoveling to help prevent any visits to the emergency room.
