Frigid temps and pain
Have you noticed that the temperature drop makes your pain levels soar? You’re not alone! Many people with chronic pain conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia find that their symptoms get worse during the winter. As the cold sets in, the tissues within the joints expand, causing an already inflamed joint to become even more swollen and therefore more painful. Here are tips to fight off the cold weather pain:
1. EXERCISE
Dropping temps and polar vortexes may discourage you from getting outside or hitting the gym to exercise. But lack of movement can actually increase your pain and stiffness. At home exercises are a good way to maintain flexible, functioning joints and muscles. As an added bonus, exercise can also improve your mood!
2. STAY HYDRATED
The lack of heat usually leads most people to forget to drink enough water. This can prevent the body from properly processing waste, making you feel more stiff and achy. Carry water with you and make sure to get the proper amount.
3. STAY WARM
The most obvious solution would be to warm your body up to soothe those sore joints and muscles. So bundle up, try heating pads, and hot baths to relieve pain.
4. VISIT YOUR CHIROPRACTOR
Chiropractic care has been shown to alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, migraine, headaches, chronic neck and back pain, etc. So stay pain-free this winter by visiting your chiropractor regularly. If you don’t have a chiropractor, contact one of our clinics to see how we can make your winter as pain-free as possible.