Winter is one of the most amazing and beautiful times of the year, but it doesn’t come without any sort of challenges. As gorgeous as it is, winter can lead to some serious health issues, both physically and mentally. The colder months can be particularly harsh on the human body, affecting everything from posture to joint health. Seeking help from a full-service chiropractor might be a helpful option in these cases.
Because of the problems that come with this cold season, chiropractors are usually called upon when the ice starts to thaw and the spring arrives. They are often on the front line against medical issues with the body. If you are one of the millions of people who experience physical issues in the winter, you should invest in a chiropractor to correct them.
Here are just some of the many problems that may arise in the cold, gray winter months.
Stiffness
One of the primary culprits of injury and discomfort during the winter season is the drop in temperature.
As the mercury falls, the human body instinctively tenses up in response to the cold. This involuntary reaction can lead to muscle stiffness, especially in your necks, shoulders, and lower backs.
The muscles in our bodies contract to generate heat and protect the body from the cold. Unfortunately, this tension can persist even after exposure to the cold has ended, contributing to discomfort and decreased flexibility.
Slips
It’s shocking to find out that nearly 1 million Americans are injured every single year because of slipping and falling on the snow and ice. That startling fact proves that the winter can be a very dangerous time that you should take seriously.
Snow and ice-covered sidewalks and roads pose a significant risk of slips and falls. Trying to navigate these treacherous surfaces can lead to sudden jolts and impacts on the joints, particularly the spine.
Your body might twist and turn abruptly in an attempt to regain balance, putting strain on your muscles and ligaments. In these sorts of situations, the injuries that arise include sprains, strains, and misalignments and require chiropractic care to fix the alignment and alleviate most of the pain.
Clothing Choices
The winter wardrobe also plays a role in musculoskeletal health. Heavy coats, scarves, and boots are very helpful when the thermometer is very low in the winter but they can also impact your posture and your body.
Choosing to wear multiple layers of clothing will alter the distribution of weight on your body, which will lead to changes in your gait and your spinal alignment too. For example, carrying a dense backpack combined with a bulky winter coat can create an uneven load on the spine, potentially causing misalignments over time.
Inactivity
Everyone knows that sometimes people just slow down and don’t do as much in the winter, and this can cause some back and body problems.
The desire to hibernate indoors during chilly weather often leads to reduced physical activity. People may be less inclined to engage in outdoor exercises or activities, opting instead for the warmth and comfort of indoor spaces.
Long periods of lots of inactivity will contribute to weakness in the muscles and stiffness in the joints, making people much more susceptible to injuries when they do engage in physical activities.
SAD
Seasonal affective disorder, also known as SAD, is a type of depression that occurs at a specific time of year, commonly during the winter, and it can also indirectly impact your health.
People with SAD will likely experience a level of fatigue, lethargy, and also a lack of motivation, all of which make them less likely to engage in physical activities. This reduction in exercise and movement can contribute to the development or exacerbation of physical problems.
Shoveling Snow
Snow shoveling is very important and seemingly innocent and safe but it can lead to unexpected visits to the chiropractor.
Clearing snow is a necessary chore for many, but it involves repetitive motions and heavy lifting, which places a strain on the back and shoulders. The combination of cold temperatures, awkward postures, and the physical exertion required for shoveling can lead to muscle spasms, strains, and even more serious injuries such as herniated discs.
Improper shoveling practices or trying to lift heavy amounts of snow can make existing spinal issues worse and can also create new ones.
Stress
The psychological stress associated with winter can also manifest physically, impacting the musculoskeletal system.
The holiday season, while usually quite joyful, can also bring about some stress and anxiety related to travel, family obligations, and financial problems. The stress and anxiety that come from all of this often manifest physically in the form of muscle tension and tightness, particularly in the neck and shoulders.
A physical toll of stress will contribute to the development of physical issues, provoking people to go find care as a way to address both the physical and emotional aspects of their well-being.
Lack Of Vitamin D
The reduced sunlight exposure during winter months can impact vitamin D levels, which play a crucial role in bone health. A lack of vitamin D is associated with an increased risk of pain and physical conditions.
The lack of sunlight, combined with the challenges of maintaining physical activity, will ultimately add to deficiencies in this essential vitamin. Chiropractors may play a role in advising patients on lifestyle changes, including adjustments to the diet and supplements. Their goal will be to address nutritional factors during the winter season.
Final Thoughts
The winter weather can impact the body in various ways, leading people to seek relief at the chiropractor’s office. The combination of cold temperatures, slippery surfaces, changes in wardrobe, inactivity, snow shoveling, seasonal affective disorder, and psychological stress can contribute to muscle tension, joint stiffness, and a range of musculoskeletal issues.
Chiropractors can provide valuable care and guidance to anyone who is trying to navigate the physical challenges of the winter season. Through their understanding of the body and their training, they are able to alleviate most pain and make sure that you’re feeling 100% by the time winter comes.
