Blogs from December, 2024

Woman walking outside during a snowy winter day. She is all bundled up but is holding a gloved hand up in discomfort as the cold weather is causing her hands to become stiff and painful. | ProFysio Physical Therapy
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Effective Physical Therapy Solutions to Keep You Moving

The chill of winter often brings more than just snow and cozy nights – for people living with chronic pain, it can also bring heightened discomfort. The cold weather has a way of making conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and other chronic issues feel worse. Fortunately, ProFysio Physical Therapy offers proven solutions to help you combat winter-related pain and maintain your mobility.

Why Does Cold Weather Worsen Chronic Pain?

Many people with chronic pain notice an uptick in symptoms during the winter months. Cold temperatures can cause muscles to tense up, which can lead to increased stiffness and pain. Barometric pressure changes, often associated with winter storms, might also play a role in worsening joint pain, particularly for those with arthritis or other inflammatory conditions.

For individuals with fibromyalgia, the cold can intensify muscle aches and fatigue. Combine these with the natural tendency to limit movement when it’s cold outside, and it’s easy to see how winter becomes a challenging time for those living with chronic pain.

With ProFysio Physical Therapy, you don’t have to tackle these challenges alone. Our specialized treatment options are designed to help manage pain and improve your quality of life, even when the winter weather tries to hold you back. With advanced technology, personalized care plans, and a team of highly trained physical therapists, our mission is to get you moving again by utilizing the following methods and modalities:

EPAT (Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology)

One of the most advanced options for pain relief, EPAT uses acoustic pressure waves to enhance blood flow and stimulate healing. Circulation naturally decreases with colder temperatures and EPAT can be particularly effective in reducing pain and improving mobility by helping to enhance circulation and accelerate tissue repair.

Graston Technique

When muscles and connective tissues tighten due to the cold, it can lead to stiffness and even scar tissue buildup. The Graston Technique uses specialized tools to relieve tension and restore mobility in the affected area(s).

Cupping Therapy

Cupping therapy, though often associated with athletes, also works wonders for chronic pain. By drawing blood to the treatment area, cupping can reduce inflammation and promote healing, which is especially useful when cold weather takes a toll on your muscles and fascial tissues.

One-on-One Care

Unlike many clinics that treat multiple patients at a time, each patient at ProFysio receives true one-on-one attention. With fewer interruptions and a dedicated focus on your needs, our therapists can personalize your program to specifically target your symptoms that have been exacerbated by the cold.

Therapeutic Exercises

Movement is medicine, and knowing how to move safely when it’s cold is crucial. Our therapists design custom exercise routines to strengthen muscles, increase flexibility, and improve circulation—all factors that help combat winter pain.

The Importance of Staying Active in Winter

While it’s tempting to slow down during the colder months, immobility can make chronic pain worse. Regular movement helps lubricate your joints, improve circulation, and maintain balance.

ProFysio Physical Therapy combines expert care with advanced technology to help you thrive, even when the temperatures drop. Whether you’re looking to reduce pain, improve mobility, or simply stay active this season, we’re here to help.

Make this winter the season you take control of your chronic pain and get back to doing what you love. Give us a call at (732) 812-5200 to request an appointment.