Do you love freezing temperatures? Whether late fall and winter is your favorite time of year or you prefer the warm sunshine, cold weather can have negative side effects.
Beyond icy roads and costly heating bills, the winter months can also take a toll on our health. How can a chiropractor help your body combat colder conditions?
Aches & Pains
Whether from inactivity or a transition to less intense indoor workouts, stiff muscles are common. We all love to get cozy under a warm blanket and watch holiday movies, but it’s essential to continue an exercise regimen throughout the seasons.
The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week to support heart and overall health. If you’re experiencing back pain or other body aches, a chiropractor can identify the problem and get your spine back in alignment.
Weight Gain
The holiday season is a joyful time of year that can often lead to weight gain. Between company parties and family gatherings, you might find yourself carrying extra pounds. Yet more weight increases pressure on the joints, which can result in pain throughout the body.
A chiropractor can not only address and treat your discomfort, but also make nutrition recommendations for weight loss and maintenance!
Chronic Pain
If you suffer from a chronic condition, the cold weather might worsen your symptoms. A disease like arthritis can intensify in winter because the cold expands our joints. The lubricating fluid in the joints thickens, leading to stiffness and more sensitivity to pain.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can also be aggravated by cold weather. Chiropractic care may improve chest expansion, flexibility, exercise performance and help sufferers breathe better!
Immune Health
During colder months, the spread of viruses and bacteria increases. Seeing a chiropractor can strengthen your immune system to keep you healthy!
The spine is at the center of the central nervous system, which influences and communicates with the immune system. Chiropractic adjustments can boost nervous system function and strengthen immunity.
Outdoor Activities
If you will be outside in the cold weather, extra clothing only offers one layer of protection. To prevent injuries while shoveling snow or participating in winter sports, it’s important for the body to be loose. Regular adjustments can help keep the muscles from contracting and stiffening, so the body can better defend itself against the cold.
At The Chiropractic Health Center of Glastonbury, we can help you prepare for the cold weather. To learn more about the benefits of working with our team, contact us today!
