If you ever heard someone say that they can predict a change in the weather based on a change in the pain level in their bodies, you may have wondered if there is indeed a connection between pain and the weather. Or you may be the one who experiences those changes, subtle or otherwise, as the seasons march on. The idea that certain painful health conditions are affected by the weather is as old as the fourth century BC. Although there have been medical studies around this very topic, the data is hit or miss. So is the weather/ health connection important? It certainly does feel that way for many people. What does that mean for sufferers of chronic pain? Just as the way that people experience pain is as individual as the patients are, the answers vary widely. However, there are some general tips that can lead to optimized comfort and less pain throughout the heat of the summer months.
For the millions of people who suffer from chronic pain, something as insignificant as an approaching storm can wreak havoc in how they feel. During summer months, vacations, long, hot days and changes in schedule or activities can make lifestyle choices related to pain management difficult to maintain. Heat and humidity tend to affect those with chronic pain because these people tend to have difficulty regulating their system during extreme temperature changes and with moisture in the air. To reduce the effects of summertime chronic pain:
- Stay inside. Check out that new movie you have wanted to see or make it a museum day. If you like to exercise outdoors, aim for early morning or late evening hours.
- Maintain healthy eating. Hot summer weather is perfect for barbecues and also perfect for berries, melons, peaches and other healthy foods that are nutritionally dense and packed with anti-oxidants and inflammation fighters… a key to pain management
- Headed out on a road trip? Plan ahead so that you can rest and get in some walks. Stretching your muscles and keeping the blood flowing improves circulation and reduces the likelihood of painful flare-ups.
- Maintain your exercise schedule. When on vacation, it is easy to place exercise on the back burner but starting an exercise routine can be challenging and you do not want to be faced with starting over once back home from you trip.
- Avoid dehydration / stay hydrated. Good hydration is essential for managing pain. This means water. Sodas and juice are not as effective as keeping you hydrated. Bored by the taste of plain water? Get creative and add some fruit!
If you or a loved one suffers from chronic pain, there are many resources available for treating or managing pain. Chiropractic Neurology provides the hope and tools for successful treatment. Want to learn more? The team at Georgia Chiropractic Neurology Center is available to answer your questions. Contact us for a consultation today.