If you suffer from nerve pain, then you’re probably aware that cold weather can affect your level of pain. Like most chronic pain, neuropathy tends to worsen as the temperatures drop. This can make the winter season – and the holidays – particularly challenging. Fortunately, there are ways to combat pain during the winter, and it all starts with some simple self-care tips.
Why is Neuropathy Worse in the Winter?
Neuropathy is caused by damaged nerves in the peripheral nervous system. The damage can occur from a number of factors, such as environmental toxins, trauma, illness or infection. The most common symptoms of nerve damage are burning, tingling, muscle weakness and pain in the hands and feet.
In the winter, neuropathy pain tends to increase, just as other forms of chronic pain do. This happens for several reasons:
- Decreased blood flow. When the body is exposed to colder temperatures, blood circulation in the hands and feet slows to keep the body’s core warmer. As blood flow decreases, pain increases.
- Changes in barometric pressure. Due to changes in temperature, the barometric pressure drops and puts pressure on the nerves, which sends pain signals to the brain.
- Muscles get tighter. Colder temps cause the muscles to tighten and spasm, expanding the soft tissues that surround the joints. This, too, results in increased pain and discomfort.
How to Ease Nerve Pain in Cold Weather
Now that you know why neuropathy gets worse in the winter, you can better understand the importance of keeping your body warm and protected. While you won’t be able to avoid nerve pain altogether, you can lessen the effects and enjoy a more comfortable winter season.
Stay warm and bundled
If you’re going to be outdoors, bundle up to keep your muscles warm. If you’re not dressed properly, heat will escape from your body, decreasing blood flow and tightening muscles. Wear a warm coat, hat, gloves, scarf and socks. Since the hands and feet are affected first and most intensely, it’s important that you have warm socks and mittens.
Keep your body moving
Even though winter forces us to be indoors more, there are still ways to stay active. Physical activity warms up the muscles and promotes good circulation. It can also be a distraction from your pain. Try gentle exercises like yoga, walking or light weight training. You can do these activities at home, or take a class at your gym or recreation center.
Practice good self-care
Over the holidays, many people are overworked and overstressed. With all of the preparation, shopping, hosting and traveling that takes place over the season, people are more likely to fall out of their routines. However, it’s important that you continue eating well, getting enough rest, taking your medications on time and staying hydrated.
Feel Better with Neuro Health
Neuro Health offers two products that alleviate neuropathy: our Miracle Nerve Cream and our Neuropathy Support Formula. They are made from all-natural ingredients that decrease pain and inflammation and support good nerve health. All products come with a 100% guarantee, so if they don’t work for you, you will get your money back.
Now is the perfect time to try our Miracle Nerve Cream or Neuropathy Support Formula. There are no adverse reactions to worry about, and you can feel better and sleep better through the winter season!