6 Ways to Reduce Pain This Winter

Winter

Unfortunately, aches and pains can be a common side effect of cold weather. If you live with pain all year, you might find that flare-ups are more common and pronounced over the winter months, and even if you’d consider yourself to be fit and healthy, you might find it harder to get going in the colder months. Cold weather can leave us feeling stiff, sore, and tense, which only worsens as we get older.

While aches and pains are normal and certainly not always a cause for concern, that doesn’t mean that you just have to live with them. Whether your pain is new or something you have lived with for years, here are six ways to reduce it for a more comfortable and happier winter.

Try CBD Oil

There are many benefits to CBD oil, one of which is pain relief. CBD can reduce pain (whether temporary or chronic), decrease inflammation, and help with muscle tension and fatigue. But, to work at its best, you need to find the right dosage that allows you to get the best results. Often, the dosage will depend on what kind of CBD you are using, why you are using it, and your tolerance levels.

If your pain is in a specific area, such as your lower back, you might find that CBD patches are more beneficial.

Exercise

You might not want to hit the gym or swing kettlebells around if your body is hurting, and nor should you. But you shouldn’t sit or lay still either. Being too still in the cold weather increases stiffness and inflammation.

So, try to move when you can. Walking, yoga and swimming are all gentle exercises, perfect for achy and tired joints, which boost circulation, aid recovery, and reduce swelling and stiffness.

Heat

Applying gentle heat, either with a heat patch or hot water bottle or using a hot bath, can ease aches and pains and reduce discomfort. You might find that a hot bath before bed helps you to sleep when you are sore.

Distraction

Distraction is a powerful tool. When we’re in pain, it’s all that we can think about, and the more we think about it, the more it hurts. Often, merely distracting yourself from the pain can reduce symptoms. This can be especially useful if you are waiting for pain relief to kick in. Try practicing a hobby, watching TV, calling a friend, or getting out of the house.

Massage

Massage can be especially useful if your pain is muscular. Massage (even self-massage) can boost blood flow to the area while releasing tension and soothing pain.

Sleep

It can be hard to sleep when you are in pain, but not sleeping will make it worse. Try timing your pain relief, using a hot water bottle, bathing, and practicing deep breathing and relaxation techniques before bed.

Most people find that a combination of techniques is most effective when it comes to soothing pain. If nothing seems to be working or are worried about your pain levels, see your doctor, who may offer further help.