In the colder months, you may find yourself experiencing more joint and back pain than usual. Whether it’s a result of reduced circulation or stiff muscles, wintertime can intensify many existing issues. To feel your best during the winter fun, check out these tips for back pain relief in cold weather.
Understanding cold weather and back pain.
Noticing an increase in back pain during winter is common. Cold temperatures and changing barometric pressure can impact the musculoskeletal system, causing your muscles to contract and tighten. This can lead to stiffness and discomfort.
In addition, reduced blood flow in cold weather may contribute to increased pain and chronic backaches.
Conditions that can cause back pain.
A drop in temperature isn’t the only thing that can affect your back. Other common situations that can cause back pain include reduced physical activity, snow shoveling, winter sports, slippery surfaces, indoor heating and dehydration.
Ways to relieve your pain.
To manage and alleviate pain, incorporate these tips for back pain relief in cold weather into your routine.
Flexibility stretches
Flexibility is prevalent in preventing back pain. Begin your day with a set of stretches to promote limberness in your back muscles. Stretches like the cat-cow and child’s pose can alleviate tension and help improve your posture.
Warm-up exercises
Incorporate a series of warm-up exercises designed to kickstart your blood circulation and promote joint mobility, such as leg swings, brisk walking or stationary cycling.
Core strengthening exercises
Core strengthening exercises are a foundation for a healthy spine, which supports your entire musculoskeletal system. Three times a week, implement exercises such as planks, bridges and pelvic tilts into your routine.
Lifestyle adjustments
When the weather changes, we tend to change our daily routines. Consider adjusting your lifestyle this winter to reduce pain by eating a calcium and vitamin D-rich diet, staying hydrated and active, and taking regular breaks.
Chiropractic care
Chiropractors can help you detect and correct misalignments in the spine that can contribute to back pain. Routine chiropractic care can help ensure your spine remains at its optimal alignment and promotes better nerve function.
Summary
For more tips for back pain relief in cold weather and to schedule your next chiropractic care appointment, connect with Advantage Chiropractic Clinic. While you wait for your appointment, continue reading our blogs for more chiropractic tips.