Tips for snow shoveling:

- If you must shovel snow, be careful.  Listen to weather forecasts so you can rise early and have time to shovel before work.

- Layer clothing to keep your muscles warm and flexible.

- Shoveling can strain "de-conditioned" muscles between your shoulders in your upper back, lower back, buttocks and legs. So, do some warm-up stretching before you grab that shovel.

- When you do shovel, push the snow straight ahead. Don't try to throw it. Walk it to the snow bank. Avoid sudden twisting and turning motions.

- Bend your knees to lift when shoveling. Let the muscles of your legs and arms do the work, not your back.

- Take frequent rest breaks to take the strain off your muscles. A fatigued body can lead to more injury.

- Stop if you feel chest pain, get really tired or have shortness of breath. You may need immediate professional help.