Do Ergonomic Shovels Work Better?

Design

• An ergonomic shovel has the same type of blade as a traditional shovel, either scooped or relatively flat. The blade design itself depends on the size, function and manufacturer of the shovel. The noticeable difference is in the shovel's handle shaft. Rather than being straight, it bends upward as it approaches the shovel's handle.

Use

• With traditional snow shovels, you place one hand on the handle and slide the other down the length of the handle shaft, which results in your being forced to bend forward. With an ergonomic shovel design, you don't have to bend as far forward to grip the handle shaft. Instead, you can lean slightly forward and reach it with ease.

Benefits

• When using a traditional snow shovel, you bend your back at a painful angle. While this bend can range from uncomfortable to moderately painful for people with healthy backs, it can cause extreme pain for those with back problems such as bulging discs. Because you don't have to bend as much while using an ergonomic shovel, you exert less pressure on your back. If you can't use traditional snow shovels you may find more comfort in one with an ergonomic design. An ergonomic shovel may save money as well as your back, as you might otherwise have to pay for snow removal.

Lifting

• Lifting snow, especially when it's heavy, can place extra pressure on your low back. Your back is the area of your body that is often the weakest, says Slate writer Timothy Noah in an article published February 2011. As a result, it is important to avoid lifting heavy amounts of snow, even if using an ergonomic shovel. When possible, push the snow to the sides of the driveway and remember to take regular breaks during shoveling.