The recent accumulation of snow and ice around Bradford can be a
real pain – in the back, that is.

Chiropractor Nancy Fuhrman talked with The Era about the surge
of weather-related injuries she’s seen and some tips for avoiding
back-breaking labor this winter.

Fuhrman said she’s had a few complaints of back strain due to
snow shoveling so far this winter, but mostly has been treating
those who have fallen on the ice or snow or fell walking on uneven
sidewalks hidden by a blanket of snow.

She has been a practicing chiropractor for 27 years this June;
20 of those years here in Bradford. During that time, she has seen
all types of winter weather-related injuries, she said, including
individuals trying to snowmobile with no snow.

“I’ve seen just about everything,” she said.

She’s also treated a few people who were involved in skiing
accidents, she said.

The patients being treated for sprains related to shoveling have
actually been few and far between, she said, as the snow only
recently started falling and has been light and fluffy – not wet
and heavy.

Fuhrman went on to say, however, that she has noticed a couple
things wrong with the way some residents shovel or remove snow from
their properties.

First off, she said, one should use the proper tools. Often
times using a shovel other than a specially-made snow shovel causes
unnecessary strain.

“When you’re not using the proper type of shovel, you have to
work much harder,” Fuhrman said.

“Bend at the knees and not at the waist,” she said. “Move your
feet. Don’t twist at the waist.”

Fuhrman went on to say she always cautions her older patients
who have to remove their own snow to do it in moderation.
Overexertion can not only cause back problems, but more detrimental
cardiac issues, she warned.

The remedy for a strained back, Fuhrman emphasized, is an
application of ice, not heat, for about 10 to 15 minutes – “no
longer, no less.”