Many of us suffer more with pain in the cold winter months. There are a number of factors contributing to this phenomenon.
We have sensors in our nerves which measure position, movement, pressure, danger, and temperature (COLD). So, if your nervous system is more sensitive to temperature, your pain will increase in the cold weather. During winter most people change their lifestyles as they are more house bound and become less active. Lifestyle factors that affect pain are exercise (or lack thereof), diet (we often eat more comfort food and less healthily in winter), sleep, and stress. So in order to decrease your pain you need to:
- Eat healthy foods
- Increase your exercise levels and be more active around your home. Stand up and move more at the office.
- Get enough sleep
- Keep warm – wear a scarf for neck pain, and a vest or jacket for back pain.
- Watch your stress levels and practice mindfulness. Seek professional help if you have mental health issues.
Our physios are trained to help you identify which of the above are driving your pain, and give you an exercise program which is specific to your body and pain levels.
