Why do Muscles Ache in the Cold Weather?
And why you are more likely to strain/pull muscles in the colder months.
03/12/2024 By Brandon Booty
(Approx 1-2 minute read)
Cold Weather and Stiff Muscles
As temperatures drop, many people notice a stiff, achy feeling in their muscles and joints. While it’s easy to attribute this to simply being cold, there’s more at play. Cold weather affects the body in ways that directly impact muscle function and mobility.
Massage therapy can be a powerful tool to counteract these effects, helping to keep your body comfortable and functioning optimally throughout the colder months.
The Science Behind Cold Weather and Muscle Stiffness
Cold weather causes the body to redirect the blood flow from our muscles, skin and extremities to our core. This is why the skin can appear paler and colder to touch. This is to conserve heat and provide the organs with extra support. This decreased blood flow leads to a decrease in the oxygen and nutrient supply to the muscles. This in turn makes them less flexible and more prone to stiffness.
Low temperatures can also cause the body to contract muscles as a natural response against the cold air as we brace against it. The increased tension and reduced blood flow can lead to discomfort or even injury, especially during physical activity. Even if we’ve not challenged the body more than its normal routine, it will have less capacity for strength and flexibility than normal.
Another factor is reduced physical activity in the winter months. People tend to exercise less when it’s cold outside, leading to less blood flow through the muscles, meaning decreased flexibility and muscle strength.
For those who suffer from conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia, the drop in temperature can exacerbate pain and stiffness, making everyday movements more challenging.
The change in humidity causes changes in air pressure, which in turn can influence the fluids in our body, leading to more tension in the joints. Damp weather often sees an increase in joint related problems. Damp cold affects our body more than dry cold for this reason.
The Benefits of Massage Therapy
Massage therapy is a proven way to counteract the effects of cold weather on muscles. Here are several reasons why adding massage into your routine during winter can be beneficial:
Improved Circulation - Massage stimulates blood flow, which helps to deliver oxygen and nutrients to stiff and cold muscles. This can help reduce the tightness caused by reduced blood flow in chilly temperatures, restoring flexibility and reducing discomfort.
Relief from Muscle Tension - Massage works to relax contracted muscles and specific knots. Techniques like deep tissue or sports massage can ease knots and improve muscle function.
Enhanced Range of Motion - Regular massage therapy helps maintain flexibility and mobility. This can be especially important for athletes or individuals recovering from injury.
Stress Reduction - Winter is also a time when stress levels can rise due to shorter days and holiday pressures. Stress further contributes to muscle tension. Massage not only relaxes the body but also calms the mind.
Support Immune Function - Studies show that massage can enhance the immune system by reducing cortisol levels and increasing white blood cell activity. This is an added bonus during cold and flu season.
Cold weather doesn’t have to mean months of discomfort and stiffness. By understanding how the cold affects your muscles, you can take proactive steps to reduce its impact. Massage therapy offers a holistic approach to maintaining muscle health, improving circulation, relieving tension, and enhancing flexibility. This winter, consider making massage therapy a regular part of your wellness routine. Your muscles—and your overall health—will thank you.
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Please be aware that any signs of significant spinal pain or nerve complaints should be assessed by one of our Dr’s of Chiropractic to diagnose first.
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