What You Need to Know About Winter Weather and Body Pain
Many people claim that their symptoms are worse at this time of year, especially those who have arthritis. Weather-related physical pain is a serious worry, despite the fact that the medical establishment is unsure of the precise cause (it may be that our joints, muscles, and ligaments simply become stiffer). What do you need to know?
Winter and Body Pain: Is It the Cold - or Reduced Activity?
You are more likely to have a slight increase in aches and pains as the temperatures decrease if you have arthritis or a condition that is a precursor to arthritis, an accident, or are older. We tend to tighten up when it's chilly because our joints tend to have less suppleness.
But mobility is also an element in play. Many claim that when they initially begin moving, they feel stiffer or more painful. For instance, you can feel sore when you get out of bed or when you stand up after a few hours of viewing a movie.
Your joints, muscles, and ligaments can expand out after you've warmed up. The best treatment is frequently just some little movement. Try opening and closing your hands many times if you are having trouble gripping something. It will be a lot simpler for you.
Another illustration: If you spend the entire day in front of a computer, you probably feel stiff and tense. Every hour or so, make an effort to loosen up your shoulders and move around for a few minutes
At the end of the day, there are no scientific explanations that can back the feelings that many have regarding temperature and its effect on joints. In fact, we tackled this question in our blog “Does Cold Weather Make My Joints And Back Hurt?” While it is easy to blame the cold for our pain, more than likely, we desire to be comfortable. We may start to move less because we don't want to remain in pain, but this only makes the situation worse.
Addressing Winter Weather and Body Pain Issues
Body pain is a part of life, much like death and taxes and all that. But what can you do to keep your body feeling its best during the winter?
- Consider your posture. Tightness, pains, and stiffness can be caused by and made worse by poor posture. Imagine there is a string on top of your head and that someone is gently pulling you up, as opposed to slouching on the couch or hunching over the computer, for instance. Pull in your abdominal muscles, lengthen your entire body, drop your shoulders and slightly pinch your shoulder blades, and maintain a straight, long back. This will significantly lessen pain and suffering in the back and upper body.
- Movement is a good way to break up sedentary tasks. Many of us spend our days at desks or using computers. During activity breaks, go for a stroll, practice some yoga poses while seated or standing, or get in a few sets of strength training.
- Prevent gaining weight during the winter. It's true: it's simpler said than done! However, gaining even five pounds can put a lot of pressure on your joints. Continue eating healthy and staying active.
- Stretch. Stretching exercises that are gentle might improve mobility and aid with discomfort.
- Prepare a winter fitness schedule. Dress warmly and step outside for a quick stroll, snowshoeing trip, or cross-country skiing experience if you can. Exercise indoors if it's too chilly, snowy, ice, or rainy. You can find a ton of free fitness videos online. Make sure to choose exercises that are appropriate for your level of fitness or that you can modify simply.
- Go to a chiropractor. This method of treating pain and suffering is non-invasive, safe, and drug-free. To assist you in achieving your health and wellness objectives, the qualified staff at Monitto Chiropractic will develop a personalized plan. You can learn more about “How Chiropractic Care Can Keep You Healthy This Winter” on our blog.
Monitto Chiropractic is the premier chiropractic practice in Asheville, North Carolina. We proudly specialize in posture correction, pregnancy care, Y-Strap decompression, Apollo Cold Laser Light treatment, and more, with over 30 years of experience. Our take on health and wellness is second to none, and we stand by our experience and our results.
Feel free to call Monitto Chiropractic if your pain problems are getting worse in the cold weather. Winter might make it difficult to see the light at the end of the tunnel, but we are here to restore health and optimism!