4 Tips for Fighting Pain From Cold Weather

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. The theory is that as the cold sets in, reduced air pressure causes the tissues within the joints to expand, causing an already inflamed joint to become even more swollen and therefore more painful. Here are four tips to fight off the cold weather pain:

1. Exercise

Foul weather like snow may discourage you from getting outside or hitting the gym to exercise. But lack of movement can actually increase your pain and stiffness. Regular exercise will help you 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, etc.

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 our office to see how we can make your winter as pain-free as possible.