Ten Tips For Combating Chronic Pain in Winter
Winter can be an extremely painful time for sufferers of fibromyalgia, arthritis, and other musculoskeletal conditions. Painful joints can be debilitating at any time of year, but symptoms can become markedly worse during the cold, wet months of winter.
Changes in the weather can make our bodies work harder to send blood to our vital organs, which in turn can leave limbs feeling aching, painful, and stiff.
Pain is your body’s way of telling your brain that something is wrong, so if you are suffering from increased discomfort it could be time to find ways to keep the pain at bay this winter.
Keep reading for ten great ways to help you stay comfortable during the chillier months.
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- Wrap Up And Keep Warm
Simple yet extremely useful tip here! Keeping aching muscles warm will help them to relax, which in turn can help to alleviate pain. Add layers for cozy sweaters and remember to wear warm socks whenever you can! Make sure to bring gloves with you everywhere in order to keep those extremities toasty.
Related: How to stay warm outside in the winter with chronic pain
- Stay Hydrated
Being dehydrated, even just a little bit, can make you achy and stiff. If you are already suffering from pains in your joints or your muscles, not drinking enough water can make the pain feel so much worse. Remember to drink between 6 – 8 glasses of water a day to stay well hydrated and to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Top Up Your Vitamin D
The lack of sunshine during the winter months can have a negative effect on all of us, but low levels can be especially difficult for those with chronic pain. Finding a good supplement will not only help to alleviate your pain, it can also help to boost your mood as well.
Related: Fibromyalgia and Vitamin D: Are you getting enough?
- Go For A Massage
Treat yourself to a professional massage, at least once a week if you can, to help reduce pain. Manipulating muscles will help, but be sure to find a masseuse who can be gentle with you when needed.
- Go For A Dip
Warm water has incredible healing powers when it comes to aches and pains. A warm bath before bed can help to relieve your pain, to ensure that you get a good night’s sleep. Or if you are mobile enough, consider taking a dip in a warm swimming pool, as exercising in warm water feels wonderful when you are feeling stiff.
Related: Tips for a Pain-Relieving Bath
- Stand Up Straight
Good posture is good for you at any time of year. Standing tall can help you to relieve the pressure on your joints. If you are in too much pain to maintain a standing position, try just straightening your back out for a few minutes, several times a day.
Related: Improve your Posture with Posture Pump
- Get Some Sleep
Pain of all kinds can feel worse when your body is tired and run down. Try to create a calm environment and a relaxing bedtime routine to get a goods nights sleep. Our bodies work hard to repair themselves when we sleep, so the more zzz’s you can get, the harder it will work to help ease your pains.
Related: CBD Oil for Improved Sleep
- Exercise Indoors
Turning into a couch potato all winter will not make you feel any better. Our bodies respond well to stretches and gentle exercise. Don’t face the cold if you don’t feel up to it, and try some gentle techniques at home instead.
Related: Great Exercises for People with Chronic Pain
- Manage Stress
Stress in the mind can have serious consequences on the body, especially for those suffering from chronic pain as it can exacerbate already-existing symptoms. Create a stress-free environment for yourself when you need it. Turn off your electronics and pick up a book, meditate, or go for a short walk outside. You can also manage stress with supplementation to keep your mind calm and body relaxed.
Related: 7 Ways to Decrease Stress
- Finally, Listen To Your Body
If your aches and pain are made worse by rushing around, listen to your body and try to relax as and when you can. Have a friend or family member pick up your groceries or order online instead. If you’re feeling tired, don’t push yourself a take a nap when needed. These little things will help your body recuperate and stay well-rested.
Related: Learning to Listen to Your Body
Take it easy this winter by staying warm and hydrated in order to help relieve the discomfort off your aches and pains. Before you know it, the spring will be here once more!
Do you have any tips for combating chronic pain during the winter? Share on XRelated:
Sheila says
I have terrible flare ups this helps me understand more great to learn how to avoid flare ups