We are now in that time of year where the real cold starts to make its appearance. Perhaps you have noticed an increase in the strength and frequency of your little muscle aches. This is normal. Here is the reason why it happens and some useful tips to reduce the extent of this phenomenon in your daily life.
"The muscle gets tired and develops inflammation"
The link between cold and muscle pain
While our body is used to warmer and more comfortable temperatures, the arrival of cold weather is usually a shock to our nervous system. It is as if our body is surprised by this change, season after season. It is therefore normal and natural for our nervous system to react more strongly when temperatures drop. This is the same reason why we are comfortable with a short-sleeved sweater at 20 C in March when we would wear a jacket in September.
To warm up, the body reacts by causing muscle contractions in the coldest areas of the body. What is interesting is that this reaction does not only occur when we go outside. In fact, the indoor temperature has also dropped more or less significantly, and therefore, we notice this reaction of our body much less. When this happens, the muscle gets tired and develops inflammation. The nervous system then sends a message of pain.
There is no need to run to the pharmacy looking for all kinds of painkillers.
Tips and tricks for your well-being
Now that we know the cause, there is no need to run to the pharmacy looking for all kinds of painkillers. We can use a few simple and practical techniques to reduce our chronic pain.
First, it will be important to cover the painful body part(s). A shawl for the shoulders, a turtleneck for the neck or a suit for the legs will be sufficient. If this part of the body is not cold, the muscle will not contract, unless there is an underlying problem. It is possible that the muscle is already very tired, so it is possible that recovery will take several days.
Next, it is important to listen to what the body is asking for. Whether it is a hot drink, a blanket, a bath or a hot shower, these little cravings are not just psychological. These growing needs are a message indicating that we need warmth.
***Attention***
It is not uncommon to feel an increase in the desire to eat fatty foods such as pasta, cheese or fast food. This happens because the body is trying to increase its fat mass to better conserve its heat. To avoid weight gain, avoid changing your eating habits and stay warm.
The most important thing is to remember to stay active and do some body stretches, especially in the morning. If you lack inspiration, refer to the video below which only takes 5 minutes of your time. These stretches can be done in bed or on the floor and are very easy to accomplish.
The benefits of therapeutic massage
One of the quickest ways to get your body back on its feet is through therapeutic massage. This technique warms the body and relaxes the muscles, thus reducing body pain. Massage also moves the lymphatic fluids, which reduces muscle inflammation. Stretching can be added in physical therapy, as well as many benefits by including aromatherapy.
-Kasandra Bernier, Massage Therapist-
**This article is written in a general and informative manner. It does not necessarily apply to your personal case and does not replace the advice of a doctor.