A Perfect Storm for Injuries: Oakbrook Terrace Surgeon Offers Snow Clearing Safety Tips

Just when you thought it was safe to hang that shovel back up, another blast of winter dumps a fresh batch of snow onto sidewalks, driveways and everything else in its path.  Enduring blizzards and bitter cold has become routine as many parts of the country experience one of the worst winters in recent memory. Part of that routine may be regularly clearing snow and ice – something you may have done many times now, but doing it the right way could prevent a potential snow-related injury.

“Everyone has heard about taking it easy when shoveling heavy, wet snow, but other factors related to a long winter can also increase the chances of a back or upper-body injury, “ said Dr. Taruna Madhav Crawford, M.D., an orthopaedic surgeon with MidAmerica Orthopaedics in Oakbrook Terrace and volunteer instructor at the University of Illinois at Chicago “Those piles of snow alongside driveways and sidewalks are getting bigger with each storm and when you have to work harder to toss shoveled snow even higher to clear it away, a pulled muscle or something even worse can grind you to a halt.”

In fact, more people become injured every year while shoveling snow than you might think. According to recent statistics by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission cited by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), more than 34,000 people were treated for snow shoveling related injuries in 2012. Furthermore, 8,000 others were injured in accidents involving snow blowers.

Taking a few extra precautions may make a big difference in staying healthy while getting through winter. Dr. Madhav Crawford and the AAOS recommend the following tips before clearing the snow.

When Shoveling:

• Push the snow; don’t lift – But when lifting is necessary, take small amounts of snow and lift with your legs.  Squat with your legs apart with knees bent and a straight back. Lift by straightening your legs and without bending at the waist.

• Pace yourself and take your time – Frequent breaks are a good idea, especially for preventing tendon injuries. Quite often, overuse injuries may occur at the shoulder, elbow or wrist – ranging from sprains to tendonitis and can even lead to a rotator cuff tear.  Also, drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration and if you experience any chest pain, shortness of breath or other signs of a potential heart attack, seek emergency medical assistance.

• Don’t throw snow over your shoulder or to the side –This requires a twisting motion that can stress your back. It’s better to walk over to where you want to dump the snow.

• Clear snow early and often – Begin when there’s only a light covering of snow on the ground so you don’t have to clear heavy, packed snow later.

When operating a snow blower:

• Never stick your hands in the snow blower! – If snow jams inside, stop the engine and wait more than 5 seconds. Use a solid object to clear wet snow or debris from the chute. Beware of the recoil of the motor and blades after the machine has been turned off.
• Proper supervision – Do not leave the snow blower unattended when it is running. Shut off the engine if you must walk away.

• No tampering – Do not remove safety devices, shields, or guards on switches, and keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

• Watch for motor recoil – Beware of the brief recoil of motor and blades that occurs after the machine has been turned off.

• Keep children away – Never let children operate snow blowers. Keep children 15 years of age and younger away when snow blowers are in use.

“It’s already a memorable winter,” added Dr. Madhav Crawford. “But don’t let a sudden injury add to what else you’ll remember about getting through the season.”

To learn more about services available and extended hours at MidAmerica Orthopaedics of Oakbrook Terrace or to contact Dr. Madhav Crawford, please visit www.handtoshoulderclinic.com or call 1-630-317-7007.