Changing weather patterns can wreak havoc on our bodies – especially on our backs. While we may often overlook it, back pain can be brought on by factors such as cold winds and sudden drops in temperature. In this article, we will examine the causes and symptoms of back pain due to external weather conditions, and provide tips on how to cope and manage it.
Underlying Causes
A Drop in Barometric Pressure
Back pain that is caused by weather changes is linked to a notable drop in barometric pressure – this is a measurement of air pressure that helps to predict the changes in weather patterns. Such fluctuations can cause the soft tissues in the body to swell up, leading to the compressing of nerves and muscles and thus, pain in the back.
Cold Winds
In the winter months – when many of us are taking a break from physically intensive activities, such as swimming – the muscles and joints can become stiffened by cold winds. These winds reduce the flexibility of muscles and joints in the body, adding strain and tension that can manifest itself in the form of back pain.
Humidity
Humidity can be an especially uncomfortable shock when going from the cool winter months to the sticky summer ones. While it is still possible to experience mild temperatures during these seasonal transitions, the change in humidity levels can cause further strain on the body. This is notably true if the humidity levels become too high and the body is worked too hard in the heat and humidity.
Signs and Symptoms
Deep Aches
It’s common for us to feel aches in the body when the weather undergoes sudden changes. Generally, these pains take the form of deep aching sensations and consistent throbbing, with the affected area being especially sensitive to the touch. These sensations may be felt in one particular area or spread over the back as a whole.
Muscle Spasms
Other signs of back pain due to weather changes include strong muscle spasms and tightness in the lower and upper back. This tightness can manifest itself in bursts of discomfort, with sometimes extreme episodes of pain that may require medical intervention for relief.
Stiffness
Muscles can also become overly stiff due to cold temperatures and low barometric pressures. Muscles depend on humidity and temperature in order to stay supple and flexible, so a drop in either can lead to excessive stiffness in our backs. This stiffness can sometimes last for extended periods of time and be exacerbated by different kinds of movements.
Tips For Preventing
Warm Up
As is always the case, it is important to properly warm up before doing any physical activity that involves the back or other muscles. This is especially true if the weather has gone through a sudden or drastic change, as it helps to then better prepare the body for the new conditions.
Breathing Exercises
Breathing exercises are a great way to ease the strain on the back when the seasons are changing. Not only do these exercises strengthen the core muscles and help to ease strain, but they also help to regulate blood pressure, improve posture, and reduce stress.
Stay Hydrated
Our overall well being can be improved by staying fully hydrated in all weathers. Hydration is important for preventing muscle spasms, allowing our muscles to better adapt to the changing weather.
People also Ask
Can barometric pressure cause back pain?
Yes, barometric pressure changes can certainly contribute to back pain due to the strain that it puts on the muscles and nerves.
What is the best medicine for back pain?
The best medicine for back pain largely depends on the severity and cause of the pain. In cases of back pain caused by weather changes, medications such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) may help to alleviate the symptoms.
What are the risk factors of back pain?
Risk factors for back pain include activities that strain the back, such as heavy lifting and extended periods of sitting, injuries that affect the back such as muscle sprains, and external conditions such as weather changes.
Can I still exercise with lower back pain?
Exercising with lower back pain is dependent on the severity of the pain. If the pain is caused by weather changes, light exercise such as swimming or walking can help to loosen the muscles and joints and reduce the pain.
How can I prevent back pain when the weather changes?
In order to prevent back pain when the weather changes, it is important to warm up before engaging in any physical activities, perform breathing exercises, and stay hydrated.
Final Words
Back pain is a common condition that can be brought on by drastic changes in the weather. The pain is usually linked to drops in barometric pressure, cold winds, and increased humidity. There are a range of signs and symptoms to watch out for, as well as helpful tips to prevent and manage the pain. It is important to remember that our bodies are greatly impacted by the changing of seasons, and so wise precautions should be taken.