Back Pain in Winter: Why It Gets Worse and What to Do

Key Points

• Cold weather causes muscles to tighten and joints to stiffen, increasing back pain
• Reduced physical activity in winter leads to weakened core support
• Winter activities like shoveling snow and holiday stress contribute to back strain
• Chiropractic adjustments help restore alignment and reduce winter back pain
• Simple lifestyle changes like staying active and dressing warmly can prevent discomfort
• Professional care at Cannon Chiropractic provides targeted relief across four Tennessee locations
   

Ever notice how your back seems to ache more when the temperature drops? You're not imagining it. Winter has a sneaky way of making back pain worse, and if you're dealing with stiffness, soreness, or outright pain during the colder months, you're definitely not alone.

The good news? Understanding why winter triggers back pain can help you take steps to feel better. Even better news? Chiropractic care offers natural, effective relief that addresses the root causes of your discomfort.

Let's break down what's happening to your back when winter rolls around and what you can do about it.

Why Does Cold Weather Make Back Pain Worse?

Your Muscles Tense Up

When temperatures drop, your body's natural response is to conserve heat. That means your muscles contract and tighten up, especially in your back, neck, and shoulders. This constant tension can lead to muscle spasms, reduced flexibility, and yes, that familiar ache.

Think about how you naturally hunch your shoulders when you step outside on a freezing day. That protective posture? It's putting extra strain on your spine and the muscles that support it.

Barometric Pressure Changes Affect Your Joints

Ever heard someone say they can "feel a storm coming" in their bones? There's actually science behind that. When barometric pressure drops (which often happens before cold or stormy weather), it can cause the tissues in your joints to expand slightly. This puts pressure on nerves and can trigger pain, especially if you already have underlying spine issues.

You're Moving Less

Be honest: how often do you exercise in winter compared to summer? Most people reduce their physical activity when it's cold outside. Maybe you're not taking those evening walks anymore, or you've put your outdoor workouts on hold until spring.

The problem is, less movement means weaker muscles. Your core muscles play a huge role in supporting your spine, and when they're not being used regularly, your back has to work harder to keep you upright. This extra strain can lead to pain and stiffness.

Winter Activities That Stress Your Back

Snow Shoveling

If you live in an area that gets snow, shoveling can be a real back killer. The repetitive twisting, bending, and lifting of heavy, wet snow puts tremendous stress on your spine. One wrong move, and you could throw your back out completely.

Holiday Hustle and Bustle

The winter holiday season brings its own set of physical challenges. Carrying heavy shopping bags, decorating the house, traveling long distances in the car, and even standing in the kitchen for hours preparing meals can all contribute to back pain.

Poor Posture Indoors

When you're spending more time inside, you might find yourself curled up on the couch, hunched over your laptop, or sleeping in awkward positions. These habits can throw your spine alignment out of whack and create chronic pain.

What You Can Do About Winter Back Pain

Stay Active (Even When It's Cold)

I know, I know. The last thing you want to do when it's freezing outside is exercise. But staying active is one of the best things you can do for your back. You don't need to run a marathon. Simple activities like:

• Indoor stretching or yoga
• Walking at an indoor mall
• Swimming at a heated pool
• Light strength training at home

These activities keep your muscles strong and flexible, which protects your spine. Even 20-30 minutes a few times a week can make a big difference.

Dress Warmly

Keep your muscles warm to prevent them from tensing up. Layer your clothing, and don't forget to protect your lower back. Thermal underwear or a light back support can help keep the area warm when you're outside.

Use Proper Lifting Techniques

If you're shoveling snow, lifting boxes of decorations, or carrying heavy bags, always lift with your legs, not your back. Bend at the knees, keep the load close to your body, and avoid twisting while you lift. Better yet, ask for help with heavy items.

Stay Hydrated

It's easy to forget to drink water when it's cold, but staying hydrated keeps your spinal discs healthy. These discs act as cushions between your vertebrae, and they need water to maintain their shock-absorbing properties.

Maintain Good Posture

Whether you're sitting at your desk, driving, or relaxing on the couch, pay attention to your posture. Keep your shoulders back, your spine aligned, and avoid slouching. Consider using ergonomic supports like lumbar pillows to help maintain proper alignment.

How Chiropractic Care Helps Winter Back Pain

Here's where things get really interesting. While the tips above can certainly help, sometimes you need professional care to get real relief. That's where Cannon Chiropractic comes in.

Spinal Adjustments Restore Alignment

Chiropractic adjustments realign your spine, taking pressure off nerves and reducing pain. When your vertebrae are in their proper positions, your muscles don't have to work as hard to support you, and that tension we talked about earlier? It eases up significantly.

Improved Mobility and Flexibility

Regular chiropractic care helps maintain your range of motion, even when the cold weather is trying to stiffen you up. Our team uses gentle, effective techniques to keep your joints moving smoothly.

Targeted Treatment for Problem Areas

Every person's back pain is different. Maybe yours concentrates in your lower back, or perhaps your neck and shoulders take the brunt of winter's effects. Chiropractors provide personalized treatment that addresses your specific pain points.

Natural Pain Relief

One of the best things about chiropractic care? It offers relief without relying on pain medications. Your body has an amazing ability to heal itself when given the right support, and chiropractic adjustments facilitate that natural healing process.

Prevention of Future Issues

Regular chiropractic visits don't just treat existing pain. They help prevent future problems by keeping your spine healthy and properly aligned. Think of it like regular maintenance for your car, except way more important because it's your body.

When to Seek Professional Help

You should consider scheduling an appointment if you're experiencing:

• Pain that lasts more than a few days
• Severe pain that limits your daily activities
• Pain that radiates down your legs (could be sciatica)
• Numbness or tingling in your extremities
• Pain following an injury or accident

Don't wait until the pain becomes unbearable. Early intervention typically leads to faster recovery and better outcomes.

Your Path to a Pain-Free Winter

Winter doesn't have to mean suffering through months of back pain. By understanding what's causing your discomfort and taking proactive steps to address it, you can stay comfortable all season long.

Cannon Chiropractic has been helping people across Tennessee find relief from back pain for years. Whether you're dealing with chronic issues or sudden winter-related pain, we're here to help you feel your best.

Convenient Locations Across Tennessee

We make it easy to get the care you need with four locations:

• Brownsville: 1129 S Dupree Ave, Suite 300, Brownsville, TN 38012 | Phone: (731) 585-9355
• Lakeland: 9020 Highway 64, Suite 103, Lakeland, TN 38002 | Phone: (901) 746-8745
• Oakland: 200 Chickasaw Ridge Dr Ste 19, Oakland, TN 38060 | Phone: (901) 235-6798
• Munford: 76 Tabb Drive, Munford, TN 38058 | Phone: (901) 840-2234

New patients are always welcome, and we'll work with you to create a treatment plan that fits your needs and schedule.

FAQs About Back Pain in Winter

Why does my back hurt more in cold weather?

Cold weather causes your muscles to contract and tighten, reducing flexibility and increasing tension in your back. Changes in barometric pressure can also affect your joints and nerves, leading to increased pain. Additionally, people tend to be less active in winter, which weakens the core muscles that support the spine.

Can chiropractic care really help with winter back pain?

Absolutely. Chiropractic adjustments realign your spine, reduce muscle tension, and improve mobility. This addresses the root causes of winter back pain rather than just masking symptoms. Many patients find significant relief after just a few treatments.

How often should I see a chiropractor during winter?

It depends on your individual situation. Some people benefit from weekly adjustments during the winter months, while others do well with bi-weekly or monthly visits. Your chiropractor will recommend a schedule based on your specific needs and how your body responds to treatment.

What's the best way to prevent back pain when shoveling snow?

Warm up your muscles with light stretching before you start, lift with your legs instead of your back, avoid twisting motions, and take frequent breaks. Consider using an ergonomic shovel with a curved handle, and push snow instead of lifting it whenever possible. If the snow is very heavy or you have existing back problems, ask someone else to help or hire a service.

Is it normal for back pain to get worse when a storm is coming?

Yes, many people experience this. Falling barometric pressure before a storm can cause tissues around joints to expand slightly, putting pressure on nerves and triggering pain. This is especially common in people with arthritis or existing spine conditions.

Should I exercise if my back hurts in winter?

Gentle movement is usually beneficial, but listen to your body. Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or yoga can help reduce pain by keeping muscles flexible and strong. Avoid high-impact exercises or activities that cause sharp pain. Check with your chiropractor about which exercises are safe for your specific condition.

Can poor posture really cause winter back pain?

Yes. When you spend more time indoors during winter, you may find yourself in positions that strain your spine, like hunching over a laptop or slouching on the couch. Poor posture puts extra pressure on certain areas of your spine and can lead to muscle imbalances and pain over time.

How long does it take to see results from chiropractic treatment?

Many patients notice some improvement after their first adjustment, but lasting results typically require several visits. The timeline varies based on the severity of your pain, how long you've had it, and your overall health. Your chiropractor will give you a realistic expectation during your initial consultation.

FAQs About Cannon Chiropractic

What services does Cannon Chiropractic offer?

Cannon Chiropractic offers comprehensive chiropractic care including spinal adjustments, Class IV laser therapy, pain management, injury treatment, and wellness care. We treat a wide range of conditions affecting the back, neck, joints, and nervous system.

Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor at Cannon Chiropractic?

No, you don't need a referral. You can schedule an appointment directly with us. We welcome both new and existing patients at all four of our Tennessee locations.

Does Cannon Chiropractic accept insurance?

We work with most major insurance plans. It's best to contact the specific location you plan to visit to verify your coverage. Our team can help you understand your benefits and payment options.

What should I expect during my first visit?

Your first visit will include a consultation where we discuss your health history and concerns, a thorough examination to assess your spine and identify problem areas, and typically your first adjustment if appropriate. The entire visit usually takes about an hour. You can learn more on our new patients page.



How do I choose which Cannon Chiropractic location to visit?

Choose whichever location is most convenient for you. All four of our offices in Brownsville, Lakeland, Oakland, and Munford provide the same high-quality care and services.

Can I read reviews from other patients?

Yes! You can check out testimonials from our patients to learn about their experiences. We're proud of the care we provide and the results our patients achieve.

Don't let winter back pain keep you from enjoying the season. Whether you're looking to prevent discomfort before it starts or seeking relief from existing pain, Cannon Chiropractic is here to help. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward a more comfortable winter.