01/12/2021
Wrap up when the temperature drops
🥶Whether it’s doing a sport, manual graft outdoors, sitting in a chilly office or going out for a walk; as the temperature drops this winter think about wrapping up to prevent injury.❄️
At this time of year, I always see an increase in musculoskeletal issues such as sudden back pain, muscle strains and general stiffness and aching.
Muscle tension tends to increase as it gets colder. Protective postures such as hunching the shoulders or tucking arms into your sides are natural responses when we are trying to keep warm. This makes us more susceptible to musculoskeletal dysfunction.
Cold weather constricts blood vessels and the body's natural shiver response can increase the risk of a muscle injury. It’s really important to factor in a longer warm up session when going for a run or taking part in a sport to really bring the muscles up to temperature.
Heat is lost from exposed skin, most commonly the head, face, neck and hands. Consider donning things like a hat, scarf and gloves when out working or exercising. Equally sitting in a cold office can require you to rethink your office get-up!
Consider wearing layers which you can put on and remove as you need to and remove any sweaty clothes as soon as possible. Sweat evaporating from the body increases the rate of heat loss.
