Does the cold weather affect back pain?

At this time of year many of us are feeling affected by aches and pains. So today we ask – Does winter weather affect back pain?

Back pain in the winter can be contributed to by a number of factors, including:

Cold weather

Colder temperatures can cause muscles and tendons to stiffen, which can lead to pain and difficulty moving. This is because cold weather causes vasoconstriction, which is when the body directs more blood to internal organs and away from muscles and supportive tissues.
Barometric pressure

Changes in barometric pressure can cause pain in arthritic joints, including the spine.Some people notice that their arthritis or injuries hurt more before a storm, even if they are in a warm place.
Lack of exercise

In the winter, people are less active, which can lead to weaker muscles that are more susceptible to injury.
Winter sports

Winter sports can cause or trigger injuries that flare up.
Diet

People tend to eat more comfort foods in the winter, which can be high in fats and sugars.
Metal implants

If you have a metal implant, it may react differently to changing temperatures than the flesh around it.

To reduce the risk of back pain in the winter, you can try:

Eating a balanced diet with more anti-inflammatory foods like fish, vegetables, fruits, and beans
Avoiding foods that are high in sugar and processed foods
Staying active with indoor exercises like yoga, aerobics, swimming, or using a stationary bicycle

If you are suffering with aches and pains and would like to speak to one of our chiropractors, call 01963 32986.

An initial chat appointment is free