Why Does Your Back Hurt More in Winter Months—and What to Do
When it gets cold, many of us end up dealing with back pain. If your back feels stiffer or hurts more in the cold, it’s not just in your head. Winter months can make pain worse, especially if you already have lasting pain or injuries. That’s when a lot of individuals look for a wellness chiropractor near me. Let’s see why cold affects your back and, more than that, what you can do to feel better.
Why Does Your Back Hurt More in the Cold?
1. Cold Muscles and Less Blood Flow
When it’s cold, your muscles get tight as your body tries to stay warm. This tightness can cut your ability to move and make it easy to get strains and aches. Less blood flow in the cold can also mean you heal more slowly from small muscle pains or swelling, mainly in the back and shoulders.
2. Less Moving Around
In the cold months, people move less; maybe you skip the gym, don’t go for walks, or sit more. Not moving can make muscles stiff and make the main muscles that hold up your back weak. This leads to bad sitting postures and results in more pain in the lower back.
3. Injuries from the Weather
Wet paths, moving snow, and quick falls can hurt your back fast. Even wearing thick cold clothes can change how you stand or keep your balance, putting pressure on your back.
4. Stress Factors
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), common in cold months, can make you tired and expose you to dealing with tense muscles. Feeling stressed also results in tension in the upper back, neck, and shoulders.
What You Can Do About It
1. Keep Moving
Don’t stop moving because it’s cold. Activities like stretching, yoga, or walking can keep you loose and cut stiffness. Try to move each hour, even just for a little.
2. Heat Up
Use heat packs on tight spots or take warm showers to ease tensed muscles. Wear multiple layers to keep your back warm when outside.
3. Look at Your Posture
Whether you’re home working or just chilling, watch how you sit. Sit straight with your back supported, and don’t slump on the sofa. Good sitting ways can stop back pain before it starts.
4. See a Chiropractor
A chiropractor can ease pain in the spine from the cold, with easy fixes, soft body care, and care focused on movement. If your lower back hurts or feels stiff, this care can help without needing drugs this season.
Last Thoughts
Cold days don’t have to mean you must live with back pain. By staying active, keeping your back safe from the cold, and getting help when needed, you can keep your back in perfect condition.