With more snow in the forecast, it’s important to review safe practices when it comes to snow removal. According to the National Safety Council, as many as 100 people around the country die annually from injuries suffered from snow shoveling. There are also many common injuries that can result from snow removal. Eric Turner from JET Physical Therapy recommends stretching before heading out to clear your driveway. Going out without warming your body up can cause muscle injuries that can linger well past the day of injury.

Turner adds that if you do feel pain during or after shoveling it’s important to monitor it and recognize when medical care is needed, “Men are pretty stubborn when it comes to receiving medical care. Someone that’s in pain that’s disturbing their sleep significantly, regardless of how they position, that’s an indication of someone who needs to have some medical evaluation sooner rather than later.” Another crucial safety tip is not to work past exhaustion and to take breaks as needed.