Snow Shoveling Isn’t Just Hard Work: The Hidden Health Risks That Homeowners Face

A snow covered driveway often means it’s time to grab your shovel and get to work. But while shoveling snow is a routine winter task for many homeowners, it can also be extremely dangerous.

“Shoveling snow is tougher on the body than most people realize,” says Gene Caballero, co-founder of GreenPal in St. Petersburg, FL.

By understanding the physical risks of snow shoveling and how to mitigate them, you can set yourself up for a safer, healthier winter season ahead.

Dangers of snow shoveling 

Snow shoveling places significant physical stress on the body, particularly in very cold conditions. “Lifting heavy, wet snow can significantly increase the heart rate and blood pressure, raising the risk of cardiac events especially in people who have underlying heart disease,” says Dr. Hany Demian, CEO of BioSpine Institute in Tampa, FL.

A study conducted in Canada in 2017 found that after a heavy snow—about 7 to 8 inches—there was 16% higher odds of men being admitted to the hospital with a heart attack, and a 34% increase in the chance of men dying from a heart attack.

Cold air can also trigger bronchospasm, leading to asthma-like breathing difficulties. Beyond cardiovascular strain, slips and falls are a major concern. 

“I frequently see injuries ranging from wrist and ankle fractures to hip injuries and serious spinal trauma caused by falls on ice or uneven surfaces,” explains Demian.

Frostbite and muscle strains are common as well, particularly when people overexert themselves without proper preparation.

Safety tips for safe shoveling

It is possible to shovel snow without putting your health on the line. Here are several strategies to help you do so:

Choose the right shovel

Not all snow shovels are created equal. “I would recommend using a lightweight ergonomic shovel with nonslip grips and curved handles that helps minimize bending,” says Caballero. 

Do the prep work

Preparation is the key to shoveling snow safely. “Dress appropriately with warm layered clothes and waterproof boots that offer solid traction,” says Demian.

Before you start, take a few minutes to warm up your muscles and stretch, just as you would before any exercise or physical activity.

Pace yourself 

There’s no prize for shoveling snow the fastest. Demian recommends you take your time to avoid sudden twisting motions. When necessary, take breaks and always stay hydrated. 

Shovel early and use melted ice

Whip out your shovel before the snow accumulates and becomes more physically demanding to tackle. “Also, applying a melted ice product like calcium chloride or rock salt strategically can help minimize effort and reduce fall risk,” explains Demian.

Know when to forgo the task

“If you have a history of back pain, joint issues, or cardiovascular concerns, it’s best to avoid shoveling altogether,” urges Demian. Fortunately, there are plenty of other ways to get your driveway cleared. 

Alternative snow removal options

If there’s more snow than usual or you simply don’t want to (or are unable to) shovel yourself, don’t fret. There are a few alternative solutions you might want to explore. 

Consider buying a snow blower online or from your local home improvement store. It gets the job done while significantly reducing physical strain and the risk of injury. 

If you have the funds, you can also invest in professional snow removal services and forget about shoveling all season.

Another option is to team up with other neighbors to remove snow together, reducing the work involved and physical demand on your body.