As temperatures drop, many people wake up feeling stiff and sore, and a pharmacist has suggested a 55p cupboard staple that could help. Noel Wicks said it is not just in people's heads that they feel more aches and pains at this time of year.
Cold Weather and Pain
Research by Deep Relief revealed that 90% of Brits surveyed say colder weather makes their aches and pains worse, while 83% say frost, ice and snow increase their discomfort. Wicks said: "It's not just in people's heads. A study by the University of Manchester, known as Cloudy with a Chance of Pain, involving more than 13,000 participants, found that higher humidity, lower atmospheric pressure and stronger winds were all linked to increased pain."
Deep Relief's latest Pain Census Report found that 41% of respondents struggle to get out of bed because of pain, while 22% experience back, muscle or joint pain most of the time.
Diet and Hydration Tips
Wicks said: "Aches and pains can make life incredibly uncomfortable and day-to-day activities become harder. Putting some simple steps in place can make all the difference." He recommended an anti-inflammatory diet, saying: "On the flip side, an anti-inflammatory diet full of colourful fruits and vegetables and protein-rich foods such as chicken, eggs, tofu and fish, can help to improve markers of inflammation in the blood and tissues and help maintain healthy muscles and joints."
A warming chicken soup, which can cost as little as 55p for a tin, stewed fruits and vegetable-packed stews are all great ways to support aching muscles and joints. Wicks also suggested tea, including herbal tea infusions, to maintain hydration during the cooler months.
Movement and Sleep
Wicks said: "While keeping warm and gently moving can help ease winter stiffness, targeted pain relief can be useful when back pain, muscle pain or rheumatism make everyday activities uncomfortable." He advised warming up and cooling down around exercise in winter, adding: "Plus, we spend more time sitting down in winter, so muscles might feel tighter."
He said: "Dynamic (moving) stretches and mobility exercises are best before exercise to loosen joints and muscles. Think shoulder rolls, leg swings, arm circles and walking lunges. Static (still) stretches are best after exercise to avoid muscles from tightening up." Even short walks and regular movement breaks can help prevent stiffness building up during long periods indoors.
The research found that 33% of respondents say poor sleeping positions affect their pain. Wicks said: "Poor pillows and uncomfortable mattresses can make us feel pain when we wake up. Check that your pillow supports your head and neck comfortably, without forcing them into an awkward position." He also recommended a warm bath or gentle stretching before bed to help unwind.
