Cold Weather Chilling You To Your Bones?
Are you the kind of person who knows when the weather will begin to get colder because you can feel it in your bones? While medical and scientific researchers do not yet have a definitive answer to the question about cold weather’s impact on your bones, there are some theories that support the idea.
How Does Cold Weather Impact Your Bones?
It is possible for the cold weather to impact your bones in more than one way. However, researchers are still solving the riddle of just how it happens. The one way in which we can be sure we’re impacted by the seasonal downturn in temperatures is that we become less active. When our bodies are less active, circulation to our organs and bones decreases. This decreased circulation can cause weakness or pain in your joints. Additionally, the main theory about cold weather’s direct impact on your bones and joints relates to barometric pressure. Some studies have shown that when barometric pressure drops just before a cold spell, it seems to coincide with an uptick in complaints of bone and joint pain.
How to Protect Your Bones
The two actions you can take to prevent the cold from slowing you down with pain may seem like common sense, but they are worth mentioning. The first is to adapt your activity schedule to the change in temperature. If you normally jog, run or walk outdoors, don’t quit for the winter. Find an indoor track or gym – or use a treadmill at home – to keep up your exercise routine. Exercise will keep your blood flowing and lessen the negative effects of winter inactivity. Secondly, when you venture outdoors in frigid weather, dress appropriately. Keeping your head and trunk warm will conserve most of your body heat and therefore reduce the occurrence of your blood vessels constricting. Wearing insulated, waterproof gloves and boots will also help to keep your finger and toe joints from suffering the effects of low temperatures.
When to See a Professional about Bone Pain
Bone and joint pain are not something to take lightly. While rest and medications may be helpful in reducing temporary aches and pains, pay attention to – and seek treatment for – any new pains that occur during the winter months. As well, seek treatment from a healthcare professional for any severe pain you experience that includes swelling or that makes normal movement impossible.
One option for managing your bone and joint pain in these winter months is chiropractic care from our clinic. At Live Well Chiropractic Center, we help treat and prevent pain and injury through preventative health services with a focus on nutrition, exercise and spinal health. Call us today at 513-285-7482 or email info@livewellcc.com to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kim. Her extensive understanding of body mechanics will get you feeling better!
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