How Cold Weather Affects Chronic Pain

With cold weather creeping in this winter, you may start to notice changes in your joints and muscles as well as intensified chronic pain. Many people often wonder if there is a direct connection between the cold weather and their chronic pain. Do you ever go outside in the cold and question why your joints hurt more than normal? Can you feel additional pain in your back? The majority of people who suffer from chronic pain have admitted to feeling intensified back and neck pain when the weather is cold and damp. Regardless of whether or not it’s scientifically true, patient experiences suggest that with colder weather comes increased chronic back pain.

Some studies show a link to a drop in barometric pressure that accompanies cooler temperatures which can cause tissues surrounding joints to swell and lead to pain. Any change in pressure, or the weight of the air pressing against the surface of the earth, can trigger joint pain or headaches in some people. Studies have also found a strong relationship between cold, damp days and flare-ups in arthritis. Extreme low temperatures can, without a doubt, cause your pain to feel much worse than normal. Visiting a chiropractor can significantly decrease the pain you may be enduring in the colder months. Click here to learn more about chiropractic care.

If the cold weather is affecting your chronic pain, there are some things you can do to minimize the pain. Here are some tips to minimizing chronic pain caused by cold weather:

1. Apply your own heat to the source of the pain

Heat therapy can decrease the stiffness of your joints and will help to promote healing through better circulation. Try using a hot pack or warm towel and holding it against the most painful area for about 20 minutes. At the very least, it will provide temporary pain relief to help you get through the day.

2. Soak in warm water

Warm baths are the original hydrotherapy. By soaking in a warm bath, pool, or jacuzzi, you are allowing your muscles to heat up and promote better circulation throughout your body. Warm water therapy works wonders on musculoskeletal complaints such as fibromyalgia, arthritis, and low back pain.

3. Bundle up

There is no question that winter months are cold ones, so make sure you are dressing appropriately for the weather. When muscles are cold, they contract around your nerve endings and cause additional pain in the body. Layering clothing and wearing long sleeves and thermals will warm your muscles and keep your nerves calm.

4. Stretch and exercise

The less we move our bodies, the more stiff we become. Stiffness leads to additional pain. Staying active is the best way to ensure your muscles and joints won’t stiffen up, especially in the cold. Stretch daily to keep your muscles limber and exercise indoors using gentle movement like yoga or slow walking.

5. Seek chiropractic care

Visit your chiropractor and get an adjustment. Chiropractors will add movement to your joints with a spinal manipulation and it’ll help you regain a normal range of motion. Dr. Crist at Crist Chiropractic has been adjusting patients for nearly 20 years and can help you manage your chronic pain.

Those who suffer from chronic pain have additional obstacles when the weather is cold. To help combat additional pain, stay warm and active. Take good care of your joints and muscles this winter.

If your chronic pain is unbearable and you can feel it worsening, consider visiting your Cool Springs, Franklin chiropractor Dr. Jason Crist for an assessment and spinal adjustment. Chiropractic care can lead you on the path to pain relief and a healthier mind and body.

Schedule your appointment here or call us at 615-771-0022.