"Let it snow... Let it snow... Let it snow!" That's some of the words in a popular song. That's also what the snowmobilers have been saying. Well, lately, we have received enough snow to satisfy everybody's wishes! Now, we have to handle the snowfall! And who knows how much more snow we'll get in the days to come?
A HAZARD TO YOUR HEALTH
But wait a minute before you grab that shovel! Medical reports indicate that snow shoveling can be potentially hazardous to your health! Be informed before you even lift a finger to clear your walk and driveway from now on.
Dr. Barry Franklin's study was published in the American College of Sports Medicine, Health and Fitness Journal back in 1997. Today, it is still worth mentioning his findings- that shoveling snow causes a disproportionate and excessive demand on the heart, due to several factors.
A STRAIN ON THE HEART
This exercise uses mainly the upper body muscles. The shoveler works in an upright posture, while his legs are frequently motionless. Isometric exertion occurs. This means that muscles contract with minimal movement of joints. Also, the person frequently holds his breath, which further strains his body. All this occurs while the individual is exposed to the cold weather, meanwhile inhaling cold air!
Exposure to cold air can also trigger a reflex spasm in a coronary artery. This could lead to angina (chest pain), myocardial infarction (heart attack) or sudden cardiac death!
ARE YOU IN SHAPE?
It is the combination of vigorous physical activity, exposure to cold air and having a susceptible heart that jeopardizes the cardiovascular system. This is especially true in individuals who do not participate in regular physical exercise and are out of condition.
WHO IS AT RISK?
If you have a history of cardiac disease, you are at risk for a cardiac accident during snow shoveling. If you have symptoms that suggest a possible heart disorder, such as chest pain or pressure, dizziness or an abnormal heart rhythm, you are also at risk. If you have one or more major cardiac risk factors, such as tobacco use, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes or a sedentary lifestyle, then you are also at risk.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Here are some recommendations for snow shovelers. First of all, participate in regular physical activity for 30 minutes, three times or more per week, throughout the year. This will help condition you to do this and other strenuous jobs without overtaxing your body. Secondly, avoid large meals, alcohol and tobacco use before and after shoveling. Your body needs its entire resources to accomplish demanding chores.
Dress in several light layers rather than one heavy layer, so that you can remove layers of clothing as necessary. Wear a hat. A great deal of body heat is lost through the head, when it is exposed to the cold. Also wear a scarf or mask, to avoid inhaling cold air.
Consider using a snow blower. This investment significantly reduces the amount of effort needed from your heart. It's better to strain your wallet than your heart, don't you think?
When using a shovel, lightly coat it with paraffin or candle wax. This will help prevent snow from sticking to it and will hopefully make your job easier.
Start gradually to avoid sudden strenuous exertion. It is also wise to stretch before and after snow shoveling, to avoid back and muscle strains. Use your leg muscles as well as your arm muscles to spread the effort throughout your body. Lift modest amounts of snow at a time. Pace yourself while shoveling. Take frequent breaks. Take as much time as you need to get the job done safely.
Please remember that we should all be cautious when performing vigorous activities, but those with added risks need to use extra caution. Have a safe winter!
Dr. Gail Smolinski has completed her PhD in Natural Medicine. She is also a Registered Doctor of Natural Medicine, has her Doctor of Naturopathy degree and is Board Certified in both Traditional Naturopathy and Nutritional Wellness.
She is a Certified Low Intensity Laser Therapist, Master Herbalist, Registered Nutritional Consultant, Professional Homeopath and Holistic Iridologist.
Dr. Gail offers Low Intensity Laser Therapy, health consultations, Iridology, bio-energetic therapies, detoxification footbaths and a wide variety of professional health products at her natural health clinic.
You may contact her for an appointment at 306-783-1261 on weekdays from 9 to 5.
Visit her website at www.drgail.ca or her Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/drgail.ca
This column is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. It provides general information about health and nutrition. It runs bi-weekly, space permitting.
