Many of our clients here at our Newport physio clinic complain of lower back pain. For some it is reoccurring each year when the days are shorter and when the temperature drops. Getting on top of back pain when it arises ensures you dodge long term pain and keeps you fighting fit so you can continue doing the things you love!
Here are the top three reasons behind why winter can cause your sore and achy back pain:
1. You are less likely to exercise: Over the winter months people are a lot less likely to exercise. Not being as physically active means you aren’t allowing your lower back to extend or straighten out. Thus, it is more likely to be stuck in the rounded position it has been in all day.
2. Weight gain: As activity levels drop off, our calorie intake often increases. Over the winter months many people actually put on an extra 3-5kgs. Putting on weight puts added pressure onto the lower back, causing a sore achy feeling.
3. People spend way more time sitting down: Sitting for too long will increase the load on the lower back. Sitting tightens the hip flexors and gluteal muscles, putting more pressure on the lower back.
These points become more prevalent as we continue isolation and social distancing this Winter, so let’s all be vigiliant and form good exercise habits!
If you or someone you know has fallen victim to back pain, give our physiotherapy clinic a call and we can get you back to your happy, pain free self!
Keep Warm!