Chronic Conditions can be triggered by winter weather. When cold weather comes on, some people say they can feel it in their bones. The truth is that cold weather can magnify many chronic conditions.
Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Issues
Arthritis is a condition that affects many middle-aged and older adults. The change in atmospheric pressure that comes along with winter storms can actually trigger arthritis and musculoskeletal pain. Winter weather can result in increased swelling in arthritic joints, which can contribute to elevated pain and stiffness.
Physical Therapy interventions can promote a range of motion gains to improve mobility and strength gains to better support the affected joint. Education on proper body mechanics and posture can also be beneficial in reducing pain during provoking activities.
Headaches and Migraines
Migraines are one of the most prevalent chronic medical conditions that Americans live with. Though headache is more prevalent in women, it is often highly correlated with family history.
Again, barometric pressure and temperature changes are common triggers with migraines. Episodes of migraines occur more frequently with drastic changes in the temperature, which occur commonly in the winter.
Physical therapy is often an under-utilized resource in migraine management. Through manual therapy, cervical spine management, exercise, and education, many individuals experience some level of relief from their migraines.
Diabetes
Diabetes is another of the most common chronic medical conditions, affecting over 11% of the population in the United States. Diabetes is a disease in which the individual has difficulty regulating their blood sugar. The holiday season and the seasonal changes that come with it are often difficult for those with diabetes to manage. These changes in addition to reduced activity levels due to colder weather, ice, and snow result in elevated blood glucose and HbA1c levels.
Physical therapy can help to promote increased activity levels and exercise, which can be an effective way to reduce blood sugar and HbA1c levels. Physical therapists can provide useful knowledge regarding diabetes in addition to exercise programs suited to those with diabetes.
Though these are only a few of the most commonly affected chronic medical conditions, there are many other ailments that can occur during the winter months. If you or a family member finds themselves in need of therapy to address these issues any of the therapists here at WWS PT would be happy to help.
Dr. Cassie Zanolini PT, DPT,
WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation,
Doylestown, PA.
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