Tips From A Physical Therapist To Battle Cold Weather Pain
on Thursday, September 26, 2019We’ve all heard the age-old notion from those who claim they can feel rain coming based on the pain in their joints or based on changes toward cooler temperatures. While research is still lacking on the validity of these claims, what we do know is that during the cooler months, we do risk neglecting some of the healthier habits and activities we enjoyed with summer weather. The wetter and cooler weather often means less activity, less hydration, and of course, less heat. Until science decides if the weather really does have an effect on pain, here are a few tips that will help compensate for lifestyle changes during fall and winter.
Stay Active
Once the winter weather hits, it is easy to want to curl up on the couch and stay curled up until bedtime. Before you get too comfortable, though, spend 30-45 minutes being active. Walking in place is the best thing you can do for yourself to keep your circulation going.
Stay Hydrated
This is an easy one to neglect in the wintertime. Without the hot weather or bright sun to remind us to replenish water to our body, we may never even feel thirsty. Keep track of how much you drink and keep bottled water nearby. The general rule of thumb is the 8×8 rule: Try to drink an 8-ounce glass of water eight times a day, or approximately two liters a day. To calculate more precise hydration needs based on a person’s age and weight, you can go here to do the math.
Take More Baths
The easiest way to work up some body heat is to take a nice, warm bath. This will increase circulation and relax those muscles.
Diagnosing Pain
The best way to determine the cause of pain is a trip to a Physical Therapist. Pain can come from multiple causes and impact different parts of your body. At Renew Physical Therapy, we work with chronic pain, elbow pain, foot and ankle pain, hip pain, knee pain, neck pain, back pain, and shoulder pain.
Renew Physical Therapy Is Located In Southeast Portland
Renew Physical Therapy is an independent manual physical therapy clinic that was established in December 2015 by Michael and Heidi Cantwell. Our facility features three private treatment rooms and an open gym area to treat all our patients’ needs, including Chronic Pain. You can find us at 11010 SE Division Street in Portland, Oregon.
Visit our About Us page to learn more about our practice, clinic, and staff. Call us at 503.928.4914 to schedule an appointment.
Renew Your Body, Reclaim Your Life!