Pick the Right Snow Shovel

An ergonomic snow shovel can help take some of the effort out of snow removal chores.

Warm Up Thoroughly

Cold, tight muscles are more prone to injury than warmed up, flexible muscles. Do your back a favor by warming up for five to ten minutes before shoveling or any strenuous activity.

• • A shovel with a curved handle or an adjustable handle length will minimize painful bending, requiring you to bend your knees only slightly and arch your back very slightly while keeping the shovel blade on the ground.
  • A small, lightweight, plastic blade helps reduce the amount of weight that you are moving.
  • Get your blood moving with a brisk walk, marching in place, or another full-body activity.
  • Then, stretch your low back and hamstrings (the large muscles in the back of the thigh) with some gentle stretching exercises.
    • See Specific Hamstring Stretches for Back Pain Relief
  • Limber up your arms and shoulders with a body hug that you hold for 30 - 60 seconds.

The winter of 2010–2011 has been a good one for sledding and snowball fights, as snowstorms have dusted the U.S. from Georgia to New England to the Pacific Northwest. And Tuesday is no exception, with snowstorms forecast for much of the northern U.S.

But good news for snow lovers is not always good news for homeowners. Shoveling the sidewalk, the front steps or the driveway can be a labor-intensive hassle, and, as a new study shows, it also lands a fair number of shovelers—albeit a very small fraction of the population—in the emergency room each year.

In a 17-year study collecting data from hospitals across the country, a group of researchers from Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, and the Ohio State University College of Medicine found that approximately 11,500 individuals per year in the U.S. were treated for injuries related to shoveling snow between 1990 and 2006. (The data from a representative sample of 100 hospitals were extrapolated to nationwide estimates.) The research appeared in the January issue of The American Journal of Emergency Medicine.

More than half of the injuries were from musculoskeletal exertion, and an additional 20 percent resulted from slips or falls. More than a third of the shoveling mishaps were lower-back injuries. Most injuries were relatively minor: more than 90 percent of admitted patients left without being hospitalized. But a small fraction did not fare so well—the researchers estimate that cardiac demands from snow shoveling result in some 97 deaths a year. (In the sample, all of the recorded deaths were cardiac-related.)

A five-figure tally of emergency-room visits each year from shoveling snow may sound like a lot, but it accounts for a mere 0.004 percent of the population. That is less than half the annual ER influx from sledding injuries and about one ninth the injury burden of skiing and snowboarding combined.

 In Finland, where snowjob is an annual "pastime", there are shovels with proper handles (not the T-bar handles mostly seen in US), ergonomic and light snow scoops such as the Masi Polar Plus.. A company called Motoseal makes them. Now, I am not telling how one should do their (snow)job, but I am just pointing out a fact. For a comparison, in Finland most injuries related to snow come from that people fall down from the roofs or get buried under the snow that falls down from the roof.

But with really big snow – and even everyday, run-of-the-mill snow – comes a risk of death by shoveling. According to CBS News in Chicago, by early February 2015, around 18 people in the Chicago area had died in snow shoveling-related incidents. They ranged in age from their 40s to 75. Nationwide, snow shoveling is responsible for thousands of injuries and as many as 100 deaths each year.

So, why so many deaths? Shoveling snow is just another household chore, right?

Not at all, says Harvard Health Executive Editor Patrick J. Skerrett.

"Picking up a shovel and moving hundreds of pounds of snow, particularly after doing nothing physical for several months, can put a big strain on the heart," Skerrett wrote in February 2013.

Pushing a heavy snow blower also can cause injury. And, there's the cold factor. Cold weather can increase heart rate and blood pressure. It can make blood clot more easily and constrict arteries, which decreases blood supply. This is true even in healthy people. Individuals over the age of 40 or who are relatively inactive should be particularly careful.

National Safety Council recommends the following tips to shovel safely.

• Do not shovel after eating or while smoking
• Take it slow and stretch out before you begin
• Shovel only fresh, powdery snow; it's lighter
• Push the snow rather than lifting it
• If you do lift it, use a small shovel or only partially fill the shovel
• Lift with your legs, not your back
• Do not work to the point of exhaustion

Don't pick up that shovel without a doctor's permission if you have a history of heart disease. If you feel tightness in the chest or dizziness, stop immediately. A clear driveway is not worth your life.

The snow pusher - if you envision what a moldboard looks like on a plow - this is a much smaller version of that. It's made out of plastic and it's got a handle that is attached to this plastic in the back. It's designed so that you don't have a bottom plate to it. So you can't actually pick up snow. What it forces you to do is to push the snow off to the side. Much, much easier on your back and certainly much easier on your heart. The Snow pusher was developed  in  Finland and is widely used throughout the Nordic Countries. 

Your Back Will Thank You

But first and foremost, these ergonomic snow shovels are about ease of use -- and avoiding back injuries. No steel core shaft here: this ergonomic snow shovel has an aluminum shaft, making it as light as possible. Reducing the weight of a snow shovel is one way to minimize the stress shoveling imposes on your back.

More importantly, the bent shaft is supposed to allow you to keep your back straight while shoveling, as you can get a good grip on the shaft without having to reach down too far. Nonetheless, when shopping for such ergonomic snow shovels, pick them up first and go through the motions of shoveling, to see if they're the right length for you. The one I tested wasn't quite long enough for someone of my height, meaning the temptation to bend my back was still there -- thus defeating the purpose behind the ergonomic design. The Masi polar plus ergonomic snow pusher has been tested throughout the Nordic countries.

We have recently interviewd some of the Masi Polar plus snow pusher customers and these are the main  requirements of the tool that they wanted  wanted and needed.

• The tool needed to be wide, light, durable, and easy to use. The tool also needed to be constucted of a material that snow would not stick to as well as include a metal edge to reduce wear.
• The handle needed to be long enough, comfortable to grip and have an loop on the end for storing.
• The blade needed to be lightweight and curved slightly to prevent snow from spilling over the top.
• The curvature of the blade needed to allow snow to accumulate in front of the tool without accumulating on the blade itself. Similar to a truck-mounted snow plow.

These are all of the attributes for the Masi polar plus ergonomic Snow pusher Shovel.

Tips for Safe Snow Shoveling
Having recognized that snow shoveling can injure your back, now lets look at tips to help you avoid such problems.

• Tip # 1.
  If you experience pain of any kind, stop immediately and seek assistance.
   
• Tip # 2.
  Choose a snow shovel that is right for you!
  • Be sure that your shovel has a curved handle, as this enables you to keep your back straighter when shoveling.
  • Obtain a shovel with an appropriate length handle. The length is correct when you can slightly bend your knees, flex your back 10 degrees or less, and hold the shovel comfortably in your hands at the start of the "shoveling stroke".
  • A plastic shovel blade will generally be lighter than a metal one, thus putting less strain on your spine.
  • Sometimes, a smaller blade is better than a larger blade. Although a small blade can't shovel as much, it avoids the risk of trying to pick up a too heavy pile of snow with a larger blade.
     
• Tip # 3.
  Push the snow, do not lift it. Pushing puts far less strain on the spine than lifting.
   
• Tip # 4.
  Be sure your muscles are warm before you start shoveling. Cold, tight muscles are more likely to sprain or strain than warm, relaxed muscles.
   
• Tip # 5.
  When you grip the shovel, make sure your hands are at least 12 inches apart. By creating distance between your hands, you increase your leverage and reduce the strain on your body.
   
• Tip # 6.
  Your shoveling technique is very important. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends: "If you must lift the snow, lift it properly. Squat with your legs apart, knees bent and back straight. Lift with your legs. Do not bend at the waist. Scoop small amounts of snow into the shovel and walk to where you want to dump it. Holding a shovel of snow with your arms outstretched puts too much weight on your spine. Never remove deep snow all at once; do it piecemeal. Shovel and inch or two; then take another inch off. Rest and repeat if necessary." In addition to these comments, remember to move your feet rather than twisting.
   
• Tip # 7.
  Never throw snow over your shoulder.
   
• Tip # 8.
  Remember that wet snow can be very heavy. One full shovel load can weigh as much as 25 pounds.
   
• Tip # 9.
  Pace yourself by taking frequent breaks to gently stretch your back, arms and legs.
   
• Tip #10.
  Consider buying a snow-blower. When used correctly, a snow-blower will put far less strain on your back than snow shoveling.

By following these tips, you are far less likely to be injured while shoveling snow.

Tips for Safer Shoveling:

• If you are inactive and have a history of heart trouble, talk to your doctor before you take on the task of shoveling snow.
   
• Avoid caffeine or nicotine before beginning. These are stimulants, which may increase your heart rate and cause your blood vessels to constrict. This places extra stress on the heart.
   
• Drink plenty of water. Dehydration is just as big an issue in cold winter months as it is in the summer.
   
• Dress in several layers so you can remove a layer as needed.
   
• Warm up your muscles before shoveling, by walking for a few minutes or marching in place. Stretch the muscles in your arms and legs, because warm muscles will work more efficiently and be less likely to be injured.
   
• Pick the right shovel for you. A smaller blade will require you to lift less snow, putting less strain on your body.
   
• Lift with your legs not your back. Bend your knees and keep your back as straight as possible so that the lifting comes from your leg muscles, not your back. Never bend at the waist. Step in the direction that you are throwing snow. This will help prevent the lower back from twisting and will help alleviate any back soreness that you might typically experience the day after a hard shoveling job.
   
• Create some distance between the hands. This will give you more leverage and make it easier to lift snow.
   
• Pick-up smaller loads of snow. It's best to shovel by sections. If you are experiencing snowfall levels of 12-inches or higher, take it easy and shovel 2-inches off at a time.
   
• Do push. Don't lift. Save your back and your energy by simply pushing the snow to the side instead of lifting the snow and throwing it off to the side.
   
• Listen to your body. Stop if you feel pain or observe heart attack warning signs. These may include chest pain as well as shoulder, neck or arm pain; dizziness, fainting, sweating or nausea; or shortness of breath. If you think you're having a heart attack, seek medical help immediately. 

With the Masi Polar Plus ergonomic snow pusher shovel, you push the snow which is safer for the back since there is no back strain.

Don’t Let Snow Shoveling Be A Pain In The Back

With the Masi Polar Plus adjustable  snow pusher shovel, you push the snow which is safer for the back since there is no back strain.

Snow Remove Safety Tips

To help make snow removal safer, follow these tips for safer snow removal.

• Consult a doctor: If you have a medical condition, don’t exercise on a regular basis or are middle aged or older, meet with your doctor before exercising in cold weather.
• Dress appropriately: Light, layered, clothing provides both ventilation and insulation. It’s important to keep your head warm and wear mittens or gloves and thick, warm socks. Avoid falls by wearing shoes or boots with slip-resistant soles.
• Start early: Try to clear snow early and often. Begin removing snow when it begins to cover the ground to avoid dealing with packed, heavy snow.
• Pace Yourself: Snow removal is an aerobic activity. Take frequent breaks and prevent dehydration by drinking plenty of fluids. If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or other signs of a heart attack, stop the activity and seek emergency care by calling 911.
• Proper equipment: Use a shovel that is comfortable for your height and strength. Do not use a shovel that is too heavy or too long for you. Space your hands on the tool grip to increase your leverage. Use a small shovel or consider a snow thrower. The act of lifting heavy snow can raise blood pressure acutely during the lift. It is safer to lift smaller amounts more times, than to lug a few huge shovelfuls of snow. When possible, simply push the snow.
• Proper lifting: Try to push the snow instead of lifting it. If you must lift, do it properly. Squat with your legs apart, knees bent, and back straight. Lift with your legs. Avoid bending at the waist. Scoop small amounts of snow into the shovel and walk to where you want to dump it. Holding a shovelful of snow with your arms outstretched puts too much weight on your spine. Never remove deep snow all at once. Do it in pieces.
• Safe technique: Do not throw the snow over your shoulder or to the side. This requires a twisting motion that stresses your back.
• Avoid eating a heavy meal prior to or soon after shoveling: Eating a large meal can put an extra load on your heart.
• Learn the heart attack warning signs and listen to your body, but remember this: Even if you’re not sure it’s a heart attack, have it checked out (tell a doctor about your symptoms). Minutes matter! Fast action can save lives — maybe your own. Don’t wait more than five minutes to call 911
• Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages before or immediately after shoveling: Alcohol may increase a person’s sensation of warmth and may cause them to underestimate the extra strain their body is under in the cold.
• Be aware of the dangers of hypothermia: Heart failure causes most deaths in hypothermia. To prevent hypothermia, dress in layers of warm clothing, which traps air between layers forming a protective insulation. Wear a hat because much of your body’s heat can be lost through your head.
• Learn CPR: Effective bystander CPR, provided immediately after sudden cardiac arrest, can double or triple a victim’s chance of survival. Hands-only CPR makes it easier than ever to save a life. If an adult suddenly collapses, call 911 and begin pushing hard and fast in the middle of the victim’s chest until help arrives. 

Consumer Reports

Even people with a snow blower need to shovel sometimes, and our snow blower testers have plenty of advice on which snow shovels work best. When shopping, keep in mind that lighter weight means easier lifting, a rigid shovel is best (in the store, push a corner of the shovel into the floor to test for flexing), and a cheap shovel won’t be great. You’ll probably need to spend $30 or $35. Beyond that:

The handle: “Ergonomic” may not mean easy. Bent handles can make the pushing angle hard to adjust, and twisting the shovel to toss snow aside can be difficult. A shorter handle makes snow-throwing easier; longer is better for pushing—you can better tweak the shovel’s angle and use your weight. A wood handle is handsome but heavy, metal is cold, and plastic or fiberglass is often just right.

The grip: D-shaped. Be sure it fits your hands, especially if they’re unusually small or big. A padded grip is nice, as is an extra grip lower on the handle.

The scoop: Sturdy. Metal is generally more rigid than plastic but heavier. Steel on the leading edge can extend a shovel’s life and make it more effective in hard-packed snow, though the edge may scratch a delicate surface such as decking. A scoop about 24 inches across is good for a few inches of light snow; narrower is better when snow is deep or wet and heavy. A deeply curved scoop can clear a lot of snow; a shallow scoop is OK for pushing snow but spills when lifted. High scoop sides contain snow and can reduce flexing.

Bottom line. Look at our lineup below, and consider buying more than one shovel depending on anticipated need—one for lifting, another for pushing, for example, or one for dealing with regular snow and another for an icy plow pile at the end of your driveway.

 

If you have a daily coffee habit, here's something to buzz about: A new study finds those cups of joe may help boost longevity.

"In our study, we found people who drank three to five cups of coffee per day had about a 15 percent lower [risk of premature] mortality compared to people who didn't drink coffee," says one of the study authors, nutrition researcher Walter Willett of the Harvard School of Public Health. Decaf drinkers also saw benefits.

The Salt

How Many Cups Of Coffee Per Day Are Too Many?

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The findings, published in the journal Circulation, build on a body of evidence linking a coffee habit to potential health benefits.

As we've reported, previous research has pointed to a decreased risk of stroke. And, there's some evidence that a coffee habit cuts the risk of Type 2 diabetes, too.

Now, of course, it's possible to overdo it with caffeine. Research has shown that consuming more than 400 milligrams of caffeine can interfere with sleep and create feelings of unease. And some of us are even more sensitive. (I feel jittery if I have more than one strong cup!)

One study found that 200 milligrams of caffeine (the equivalent of about two cups of coffee) is an optimal amount to enhance cognitive function and mood among sleep-deprived people. But we don't all metabolize caffeine the same way.

The Salt

A Daily Habit Of Green Tea Or Coffee Cuts Stroke Risk

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As we've reported, the caffeine amounts in coffee vary wildly. One analysis, conducted by Bruce Goldberger, found a 16-ounce cup of caffeinated coffee from Starbucks could contain anywhere from 250 milligrams to more than 500 milligrams of caffeine.

"Not everyone reacts to coffee in the same way," says Andrew Maynard, who studies risk assessment at Arizona State University. He summarizes the benefits documented in this study as "small."

He says this study does not prove cause and effect between drinking coffee and living longer. Rather, it points to an association. "There are a lot of unknowns as to what [may explain] the increase in life expectancy," Maynard says.

Got more questions? So did we. Here's our conversation about the findings with study co-author Walter Willett, edited for length and clarity.

So, what do you think might explain this association? In the study, you point to compounds in coffee — such as lignans, quinides and magnesium — that may help reduce insulin resistance and inflammation. Prior studies have pointed to these as well.

We're not sure exactly how coffee is [linked] to all these benefits. The coffee bean itself is loaded with many different nutrients and phytochemicals. And my guess is that they're working together to have some of these benefits.

We [see] similar benefits from caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee. That's important, because it suggests that caffeine is not responsible for [the benefit].

So this may be welcome news to people who drink decaf?

Yes, because too much [caffeinated] coffee can cause insomnia and loss of sleep, and that's not a good thing!

The reduced risk of death was not seen among the coffee drinkers in your study who were smokers or former smokers.

Definitely. It's extremely important to disentangle the effects of coffee from the effects of cigarette smoking.

So, what's the take-home here? Is it that coffee can be part of a healthy lifestyle?

I think if people like coffee, it's fine to include it [as part of your daily habit]. So, certainly, [people] should not feel guilty about moderate coffee consumption. It definitely can be part of a healthy lifestyle.

 

have a good cup of coffee after clearing the driveway with a masi polar plus  ergonomic Snow pusher .shovel.

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Question: What Is the Best Way to Remove Snow From Driveways?

What is the best way to remove snow from a driveway? There's certainly still a place for good old-fashioned snow shovels, even in today's hi-tech world. By following a few easy shovelling tips, you should be able to remove snow from driveways safely, comfortably and efficiently:

Answer:

Safety. Comfort. Efficiency. Those are the watchwords to keep in mind when you have to remove snow from a driveway.

Below I deal with each, briefly; for a more detailed treatment, consult my full article on snow shovelling.

To remove snow safely, begin by stretching your muscles inside, first. Once you begin to remove snow, use your legs and maintain a good posture to keep from putting undue strain on your back.

For comfort, apply multiple layers of clothing when dressing, and keep your extremities protected from the cold. Once you begin to remove snow, though, you'll probably find yourself working up a good sweat, so be prepared to peel off one layer.

Efficiency takes a number of forms when shovelling snow. The first trick is implemented while you're still in the house: Wax the blade of your shovel so that, when you remove snow from the driveway and attempt to fling it into a pile (on the lawn, for example), the snow won't stick to the blade.

 

www.ultimatesnowshovel.com best ergonomic snow shovel in the world

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