A local athletic therapist is reminding people to approach shovelling snow like a workout.

"You'd like to do a bit of a warm-up and stretching before you go out," Tim Shantz, owner of Morden and Carman Physiotherapy, says

One should also take into account the weight of the snow, keeping scoops in manageable quantities, Shantz says, while throwing snow in a linear direction as a twisting motion could strain the back.

Those at risk of heart attacks should especially go slow, or simply ask someone to shovel for them, he adds.

If a back injury does occur, Shantz says to avoid applying heat, as heat will exacerbate recovery time and increase inflammation.

"With the cold weather, a lot of people will run to a hot pack, hot tub, or warm bath, which isn't necessarily the best option for an acute injury," he says. "They should actually be icing it down and resting it, especially if it's muscular."

When in doubt, Shantz says, potential injuries should be assessed by a professional.