Winter aches? How to manage pain during winters !
Winters are around, many of you wake up on a cold morning with stiff muscles or joint pain. Some of you may experience neck pain, leg pain, back pain etc.
This blog will offer effective strategies to cope with winter pain.
Why does winter cause pain !
1. Some theories support that drop in atmospheric pressure, causes the body tissues to swell, which puts pressure on the nerve endings, and so you experience pain.
2. Some theories support the thickening of synovial fluid, which in turn irritates the nerve endings, hence increases joint pains, especially arthritis type of pain.
3. The drop in temperature causes the blood vessels to constrict, reducing blood flow to joints and muscles. This increases muscle stiffness, which provokes pain.
4. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) – Changes in weather affects mood. Feelings of depression and sadness can make you attuned to pain.
Tips to ease winter pain
1. Layer up with warm clothes – Thermal clothing will help maintain fairly high body temperature. This will help in better blood circulation so preventing muscle stiffness and pain.
2. Heat Therapy – Apply hot packs, to relax muscles and reduce pain. Heat Therapy enhances blood flow and ease pain.
3. Stay active indoors – Engage in gentle exercises, light walking around the house. Movement increases blood flow, reducing joint stiffness and keeping your body flexible.
4. Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of water, even in winter, to make your joint lubricated and muscles flexible.
Ayurvedic remedies
1. Ginger tea has been proven affective in reducing inflammation and hence reducing pain.
2. Oil massage over the muscles and joints, increses- blood flow and soothens your pain.
Seek professional help if you experience persistent joint pain that doesn’t improve with home remedies, severe swelling, redness, or difficulty moving the joint. These symptoms may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical attention.
Physiotherapy offers tailored treatments like joint mobilization, therapeutic ultrasound, and customized exercise plans to manage winter pain effectively. A physiotherapist can guide you through safe techniques to reduce stiffness and improve mobility, ensuring long-term joint health.
