Back Pain in Winter: Why It Happens & How to Fix It
Many people notice that back pain gets worse in winter. Whether it’s stiffness from the cold or reduced activity, the season can make aches and tightness more noticeable. Understanding why it happens, and what to do about it, can help you stay comfortable all year.
Why Back Pain Gets Worse in Winter
Cold weather stiffness. Lower temperatures cause muscles and joints to tighten, limiting flexibility.
Less movement. Shorter days and more time indoors mean less activity, which can weaken spinal support.
Posture changes. Hunching against the cold or sitting more often can increase tension in the back and neck.
Old injuries. Scar tissue and inflammation may flare up when temperatures drop.
How to Prevent & Relieve Winter Back Pain
Stay warm. Dress in layers, use heating pads, or take warm showers to relax tight muscles.
Keep moving. Light stretching, yoga, or indoor walks keep joints flexible and blood flowing.
Watch posture. Whether working from home or bundled up outside, keep your shoulders back and core engaged.
Stay hydrated. Cold weather often masks thirst, but dehydration can worsen joint stiffness.
Chiropractic care. Regular adjustments keep your spine mobile and help counteract winter-related tightness.
The Chiropractic Perspective
Many patients at KIRO report more back tension during winter months. Adjustments, combined with stretching and warmth, help keep the spine moving and pain-free.“Cold weather tightens muscles and reduces circulation, that’s why people feel stiffer in winter. Keeping the spine moving through adjustments makes a huge difference.” — Dr. Kaden Hurst
FAQs
Why does my back hurt more in cold weather?
Muscles tighten in response to cold, which limits flexibility and increases tension.
Does cold weather cause inflammation?
It can increase stiffness and sensitivity in joints, especially after old injuries.
Should I use heat or ice for winter back pain?
Heat is usually best for cold-related stiffness.
Can chiropractic help with winter back pain?
Yes. Adjustments restore motion, improve circulation, and reduce seasonal stiffness.
How can I prevent back pain in winter?
Stay active, stretch daily, and keep your body warm.
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