Want to Avoid Back Pain with Cold Weather? Try These 4 Tips

It’s October, and you know what that means: pumpkin spice lattes, football, and cooler weather. But for some, even here in Florida, when the temperature goes down, it brings aggravation for their back pain or a higher risk of a neck or back injury. If you find yourself in this situation, you don’t have to dread the upcoming winter season. Here are some ways you can protect yourself and your spine and reduce your back pain.

Be Extra Careful to Avoid Injury

You may be wondering, “Why does my back hurt worse in the winter?” Although there’s no evidence to say that colder temperatures lead to increased back pain, back injuries seem to become more common in the wintertime. Perhaps this occurs because the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in your body tend to tighten with the chillier weather. Add in a simple slip or misstep, and you’ve got a recipe for back pain.

This winter season, be a little more careful as you move throughout the day. Avoid sudden jerks or abrupt movements as much as possible, and be sure you have dry, sure footing when you walk.

Stay Active

With the shorter, colder days, you may be tempted to hunker down in your home and take a break from exercising. However, staying active helps your body avoid injury and pain by maintaining your muscles’ strength and flexibility. Even if you decide to stay at home, do your best to remain active for the best chances of preventing discomfort. Your chiropractor may be able to teach you some safe exercises you can do if needed.

Keep Your Spirits Up

During the wintertime, when it’s dark more often and the holiday stress hits, it can be challenging to stay positive, especially if you love sunny, warm weather. But seasonal blues can do more than impact your mood—they can increase your likelihood for back and neck pain. There are tons of ways to fight winter depression, such as listening to soothing music, talking with a friend, starting a gratitude journal, and giving yourself an endorphin boost through exercise.

Visit Your Chiropractor for Regular Adjustments

Perhaps you think that seeing your chiropractor means you need to already be in pain. But did you know that they can do more than treat existing back and other spinal problems? When you visit your chiropractor on a regular basis for adjustments, it acts like a reset button. They can help loosen tight muscles, realign your spine, and address other joint issues that could otherwise lead to an injury.

Even though temperatures here in Florida won’t likely match that of more northern states, your neck and back can still give you grief. However, following these tips can help you face the cold with a smile instead of a grimace.

About the Author

With more than 20 years of clinical experience, Dr. Chad Wills knows how to help patients deal with neck and back pain, no matter the weather. He is one of only two chiropractors in the Collier and Lee counties to be certified in Chiropractic Biophysics. If you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Wills, he can be contacted at his practice, Wills Chiropractic, when you call 239-331-6060 or click here.