Dealing with Chronic Pain During Summers
A vast majority of people of Norman spend their summers traveling and taking part in outdoor activities. However, this is not always the case with people who go through chronic pain. Weather sensitivity is known to aggravate the symptoms in various painful conditions such as migraine headaches and arthritis. Hence, pain management becomes a necessity in such scenarios.
Weather and Pain: What’s The Link?
You may wonder: “How can hot weather aggravate chronic pain?”
One of the reasons is the variation in the barometric pressure, which is a measurement of exertion of atmospheric pressure on a particular surface (like the human body).
This enhances the pressure on your tissues, joints, and nerves, thereby intensifying the pain.
Studies reveal that increased humidity and decreased barometric pressure are linked with chronic pain.
Few doctors also believe that changes in it often led to the expansion and contraction of muscles, tendons, bones, and scar tissue, making matters worse. A study had already shown that a reduction in barometric pressure made migraine headaches more severe.
Just like that, summers are more likely to increase the possibility of dehydration, leading to headaches.
Ways to Manage Pain During Summers
Looking for effective pain management tips during the summer season? Here they are:
It is best to avoid being outdoors in the scorching heat of Norman.
You must drink adequate water to lower the chances of dehydration.
Loose cotton clothing can help in keeping your body cool.
Engage in activities such as swimming.
You should carry and use handheld fans, cooling wraps, and other cooling devices.
Take part in outdoor activities at cooler hours (early morning or early evening).
Avoid staying in the sun for prolonged periods of time.
Prevent hard seating at picnics and sports stadiums.
Use cushions to avoid intensifying chronic knee and back pain.
In addition to these tips, longer periods of sitting must be avoided to lower the chances of stress on the legs, neck, and spine. Keep an eye on the air quality as air pollution often leads to inflammation and cellular injury, which in turn increases the stress on the already-inflamed systems.
Although people tend to eat less during the summers, it is important to fulfill your everyday nutritional requirements. (Summer-fresh meals such as cherries consist of compounds that help in relieving inflammation and pain).
Do not hesitate to come in the shade whenever needed.
You must understand that improvement always begins with smaller and practical behavioral changes.
Suffering is Not Inevitable
We at Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers revolutionize pain management through our interdisciplinary approach. Dr. Blake Christensen and his fellowship-trained team follow a balanced approach and use minimally invasive treatment to assist you. Visit our website to schedule an appointment today.
**Disclaimer: These tips are not advised or suggested by doctors. The products that are promoted here are not FDA CERTIFIED to treat, cure or prevent any disease.
