STOP Pain and Stiffness!
Winter can get the better of our health – Learn how to beat the pain.
Most people feel a difference in their bodies over the winter months. Generally a lack of movement and exercise, combined with rigid, tight posture during the day and night, accounts for most of the discomfort. It’s also the time that most people seek advice and treatment for a recurrent episode of pain.
Here are some basic tips that can help prevent the aches and pains.
1) Warm up before the morning stretch:
Stretching as soon as we get out bed can be a little aggravating on pain, especially arthritic pain. Have a gentle walk around, make a cup of tea or coffee then try stretching. The additional movement before adding stress to your joints can help avoid the aggravation from stretching.
2) Avoid the cold by keeping active:
One of the most basic and effective ways to warm up is to move your body. Rather than sitting on the couch curled up and freezing cold, try getting up and marching / jogging on the spot. Increasing core body temperature is easy when you are increasing your heart rate. It sounds very simple and it is. It is also very effective.
3) Check your Pillow / Mattress:
Most people do not change their pillows or mattress frequently enough. Although there isn’t an exact rule for when to upgrade consider if your pillow or mattress no longer springs back or slumps. One more thing, if you’re in pain every time you sleep on it – definitely consider a change. We recommend a memory foam / contour pillow. Next time you’re in have a look at the one’s we stock.
4) Ensure you’re getting enough Vitamin D:
There is some good evidence that a decrease in Vit D levels can increase mechanical pain; i.e. pain that is aggravated by movement. There is also evidence that Vit D can affect how the brain perceives pain. So consider spending some quality time outdoors in the warm winter sunshine. Or visit our Naturopath, Louise for some helpful advice.
5) Have A treatment:
Most pain we see in clinic results from a lack of movement and activity. Degenerative joints, stiffness and muscular tightness contribute to the feeling of pain. All of these are easily and effectively managed with Massage, Chiropractic, Osteopathy and Exercise Physiology. Waiting for summer only puts you at more risk of ongoing pain. Book in and begin feeling better today.
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