According to expert, cold temperatures can lead to muscle contractions and stiffness, affecting the shoulders and surrounding areas. Reduced blood flow to the muscles in cold weather can contribute to tension and pain.
Winter is that time of the year which brings many health issues ranging from cold to heart diseases to bone health. These colder months often make people bundle up and stay indoors and this leads to lack of movement. Lack of movement eventually makes our msucles weak and tendons surrounding the shoulders.
Dr Aprameya Joshi Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon Ruby Hall Clinic Pune says, “As winter sets in, many individuals experience a familiar discomfort—shoulder pain. The cold weather seems to exacerbate this issue for numerous people, making daily activities challenging and affecting overall quality of life. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind shoulder pain during winter and discuss effective remedies to alleviate this discomfort.”
Causes of Winter Shoulder Pain:
Muscle Contractions in Cold Weather: Cold temperatures can lead to muscle contractions and stiffness, affecting the shoulders and surrounding areas. Reduced blood flow to the muscles in cold weather can contribute to tension and pain.
Arthritis Aggravation: Individuals with arthritis, especially osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, may experience increased pain during winter. Cold and damp weather can affect joints, causing inflammation and discomfort.
Poor Posture Indoors: During the winter, people tend to stay indoors more often, leading to prolonged periods of sitting and poor posture. Incorrect posture can strain the shoulders and contribute to pain.
Lack of Physical Activity: Cold weather may discourage outdoor physical activities, leading to reduced movement and stiffness in the shoulder joints.
Remedies for Winter Shoulder Pain:
Stay Warm: Dress in layers to retain body heat. Use heating pads or warm compresses to relax shoulder muscles.
Regular Exercise: Engage in indoor exercises that focus on shoulder mobility and strength. Yoga and stretching routines can help alleviate stiffness.
Maintain Good Posture: Be mindful of your posture, especially during extended periods of sitting. Use ergonomic chairs and pillows to support proper alignment.
Hydration: Consciously maintain adequate hydration levels. Drink warm beverages to soothe muscles and joints.
Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties. Consult with a nutritionist for a diet tailored to reduce inflammation.
Joint Supplements: Consider taking joint supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin, after consulting with a healthcare professional.
Warm-up Before Outdoor Activities: If engaging in outdoor activities, warm up properly to prepare muscles and joints for movement.
Physiotherapy: Seek professional guidance from a physiotherapist for targeted exercises and techniques to alleviate shoulder pain.
Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications may be recommended by a healthcare professional for temporary relief.
