A woman holds her hand in pain Have you ever noticed that you’re more susceptible to aches and pains when the weather gets cold? It might seem like coincidence, but the freezing temperatures really can affect the way your body feels. Read on to discover the probable connection between cold weather and pain, and to find out how you can beat the winter blues in your aching muscles and joints.

Does Cold Weather Really Cause Pain?

Doctors tend to see more patients complaining about aching joints and muscles when it’s cold outside. While science has yet to produce conclusive proof that cold weather causes more pain, studies have resulted in strong evidence for this notion. Research suggests that cold temperatures trigger the body to attempt to conserve heat — your body responds by directing more blood to central organs like the lungs and heart. This constricts the blood vessels in areas such as the arms and legs. Reduced blood flow makes those areas colder, and your joints and muscles get stiffer. Evidence also suggests that changes in barometric pressure contribute to many types of pain, from muscle and joint pain to migraine headaches. When the air pressure is lower, body tissue can expand slightly, which puts pressure on sensitive areas like joints. If you have existing conditions like arthritis or old injuries, this makes it easier for pain to flare up.

Tips for Easing Winter Aches and Pains

Here are a few tips to relieve your discomfort during the colder months.

1. Keep Achy Areas Insulated

Wearing a jacket or winter coat may keep your torso comfortable, but it likely doesn’t give your aching joints enough protection. When you head out into the chilly winter air, dress in layers. Wear gloves, warmer shoes, and clothing that provides extra insulation to your knees and other potential problem areas.

2. Warm Up Before Going Outside

If you’re planning to spend time outdoors in the cold weather, do some warm-up exercises before you leave your house. Gentle stretches and movement will get your blood pumping and loosen your joints in the warmer indoor environment, so you will be more comfortable when you step out into the cold. This also works if you’re about to get into your cold car for a drive, as you’ll have a more pleasant experience while your car’s interior warms up.

3. Stay Cozy in Your Home

It can be tricky to get everyone in the house to agree on the ideal thermostat setting. Fortunately, you can cozy up, even if your home is a few degrees cooler than you’d prefer. Bring out the warm, comfortable clothes and extra blankets, to ensure you get a good night’s rest and prevent you from waking up in pain because you’re too cold.

4. Try Heat Treatments

Applying gentle heat is a very satisfying way to relieve muscle and joint pain on a cold day. While a hot shower is great once a day, heat treatments can be used whenever you need some extra warmth. Electric heating pads or microwavable heat packs work well as spot treatments — but if you want to target areas such as your hands, feet, or elbows, try a paraffin wax heat therapy bath. This spa-style treatment coats the area in warm wax and lets the heat soak in. As an added bonus, the wax will soothe and moisturize winter-dry skin.

5. Give Yourself a Therapeutic Massage

A therapeutic massage is a tried-and-tested way to relieve joint and muscle pain. While a professional massage therapist can target specific areas, self-massage can be just as effective. There are many excellent tools available to help you treat yourself to a soothing therapeutic massage. At The Back Store, we offer everything from portable, handheld massagers to devices that focus specifically on painful areas, such as your feet and calves. We also boast a huge range of massage chairs for full-body relaxation, and portable electronic muscle stimulators that provide a similar effect to massage. If you’re experiencing pain during this season’s cold weather, browse our selection of luxurious massage instruments to help you feel more comfortable and content.