Does Cold Weather Really Make Pain Worse?

People have long associated cold weather with bouts of increased pain. This is especially true for those of us living with persisting body pains, also known as chronic pain. With so many people experiencing greater pain during these cold spells, we looked to the research to find answers.

The recent polar vortex brought record low temperatures and winter storms.

Source: Matthew Henry/Unsplash

Studies on the topic were conducted in the 1990s with little consensus. For years, the research showed no significant connection between pain and cold weather. Then, in 2003, an animal study showed that when rats were exposed to low pressure or low-temperature environments, they responded with increased pain sensitivity and pain behaviors.

In recent years, we began to understand the reality of what so many report experiencing. A large study was published in 2020 examining human pain fluctuations compared to GPS weather data. This study clearly showed the relationship between pain and meteorological variables, including humidity, atmospheric pressure, and wind. Interestingly, the air temperature was not found to be a significant factor in pain fluctuations. Instead, the factors we associate with cold weather were the primary culprits: strong winds, low pressure, high humidity, and precipitation.

Because the evidence on the subject was mixed, even if an association is found, we are unable to conclude a strong connection between pain and weather conditions. And we do not yet understand the mechanisms to explain why pain levels are more intense on inclement days.

Some believe the increased discomfort is a result of reduced activity, muscle tension, joint stiffness and inflammation, an activated sympathetic nervous system, or negative emotional states. We can say we do not yet fully understand this phenomenon and simultaneously prepare to weather the storms.

Here are six tips to beat the cold and prevent increased pain:

Remain Active: A brisk walk or marching in place can go a long way to creating warmth from the inside out. This also prevents joint stiffness. Some are opting for home exercises, like yoga, stretching, and strength training.

Pack on the Heat: A heating pad on the shoulders, warming topical creams if recommended, and dressing in many clothing layers will provide additional warmth and insulation to prevent excessive muscle tension.

Warm Your Core: Taking a hot shower or if you have access to a sauna, steam room, or hot tub can offer much-needed warmth. After you dry off, immediately bundle up to lock in the heat.

Snuggle Up With Someone Warm: Join either a pet or a loved one to share body heat. They are called warm fuzzies for a reason!

Soothe aching joints when the winter storms cause pain.

Source: Taryn Elliott/Pexels

Visualize: Create the image of a warm and cozy place in your mind, perhaps a familiar place or simply imagining yourself sitting next to a fireplace with a blanket and tea. Visualization can be extremely powerful.

Nourish Your Body: Whether you choose a comforting hot beverage or prepare an elaborate anti-inflammatory meal, consider giving your body what it needs to feel its best despite the cold, including staying adequately hydrated.