North Wales, PA -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/22/2019 -- As the top-rated physical therapy clinic serving the residents of Horsham and the surrounding areas, Total Performance Physical Therapy understands that the cold, freezing conditions of winter can cause a significant increase in pain and discomfort for patients suffering from sports injuries or arthritis. Now, the organization's expert doctors are offering information on how and why this heightened pain occurs and how to prevent it.
Currently, research has led to a few theories that describe the cause of this cold-weather sensitivity in the joints and previous injuries. Exposure to cold weather causes the body to conserve heat, leading to the constriction of blood vessels in the arms, legs, and joints. Studies have shown that this decreased blood flow can make those areas of the body achy and stiff. Additionally, fluctuations in barometric pressure can cause changes in circulation and even adversely affect nerve fibers, leading to an increase in pain and discomfort.
However, there are some steps patients can take to alleviate the discomfort and even prevent it from occurring in the first place. For example, it's essential to dress appropriately, even when indoors. Areas like the feet and hands can be especially susceptible to cold temperatures, so wear gloves when necessary and avoid getting wet feet by wearing waterproof boots. Additionally, invest in some warm but breathable clothing that wicks moisture away.
Another way to avoid the extra aches and pains of winter is to take extra time to warm up before exercising outdoors. Although it's always critical to stretch and limber your body before working out, it's especially crucial in the colder months, when tightness can lead to an increased chance of injury, like muscle sprains or tears. If the outdoor conditions are too severe for an open-air workout, then it's advised to use small free weights or bodyweight exercises in the home to ensure and maintain mobility.
The doctors at Total Performance Physical Therapy provide a host of services, like post-surgery physical therapy for residents in and around Horsham, PA to make them stronger, faster, and better. For more information on cold weather and its effect on the body, or to schedule a consultation, contact them today at 215-703-2529 or visit https://www.totalperformancept.com/ today.
About Total Performance Physical Therapy
Led by the nationally-renowned Dr. Heather Moore, Total Performance Physical Therapy is a state-of-the-art center for physical and aquatic therapy dedicated to the physical rehabilitation of athletes of all ages and ability levels. With a Physical Therapy and Coaching Staff that consists exclusively of Doctorate-level physical therapists, Total Performance Physical Therapy employs cutting-edge physical therapy techniques to create personalized programs that address the needs and goals of every patient.