But we have some expert tips on easing the aches you have - and preventing new ones.
Delaware valley residents moved mountains of snow this weekend.
And today, it's payday for that effort.
Joe Ruhl, P.T., A.T.C., and president of Excel Physical Therapy, says aching muscles first need cold, to reduce inflammation.
Ruhl says, "Get a couple of plastic bags, fill them with snow. Go inside. You want to lie on them, and put your feet up on an ottoman."
He adds, "The snow, it will mold very well to your back. It's a really good way to get the ice right where you want it, and you won't have the ice cubes sticking into your back."
Only use the cold packs for 15 minutes out of an hour.
And after 48 hours, switch to warm packs, again for 15 minutes at a time.
"Always, after an injury, use ice," he says.
Ruhl says the people who exercise less are far more prone to injury than those who are fit.
To ward off aches next time, Ruhl says you should warm up before you shovel.
"Walk up and down the stairs, do jumping jacks, do some calisthenics, some easy things like that," says Ruhl.
He also showed us a way to shovel that's kinder on the back.
"Bend your knees, step into it, lift it, and then place it...right in front of you. Where most of the injuries are going to happen are twisting....the twisting motion is where it's really damaging to the back," says Ruhl.
Keep the shovel's load close to your body, and don't overload your shovel.
Take your time, switch sides periodically, and take breaks.
"Listen to your body," says Ruhl.
You will be more likely to injury yourself, if you are tired.
Ruhl says he wasn't an early advocate of the ergonomic shovels, but he is now, after seeing them in action.
"They allow you to bend less, in order to get the snow. It helps you lift, while keeping it closer," he says.
And if you are cleaning off your car, use a broom, instead of a shorter-handled brush.
"You won't have to reach as far, and that will put less strain on your back," says Ruhl.
Click here for link to Excel Physical Therapy.
