In New England we all used to the throes of winter's cold weather. Many of us have begun our winter training, and others of us settle in for the winter. But many of our patients often ask us, Why do my aches and pain increase in the cold? Whether you have chronic condition or long standing orthopedic problem, weather often magnifies your discomfort. In absence of absolute scientific proof, several discussions upon research provide proposed explanations for this cause, from barometric pressure, to decrease in blood flow to joints and elasticity of muscles and tendons, and even seasonal affective disorder may influence your perception of pain.

Decreased activity in the winter months contributes as well to increased risk for stiffness and joint pain.

It is absolutely true, that when it's cold outside, it is more difficult for blood to circulate to our extremities, which can result in our pain receptors often times becoming more sensitive. Often times our conditions may not entirely be exacerbated but our nervous system may perceive the discomfort more intensely.

What can you do?

• Fight the urge to hibernate and move more in the winter months
• Get regular massage therapy to stimulate the nervous system to reduce inflammation and increase blood flow.
• To address pain and increase flexibility
• consider doing warm-ups, like arm circles, knee ups before going outside into the cold.
• Consider eating foods rich in Vitamin K and Vitamin C.
  
• Dress in several layers before going out doors to allow for progressive warm up

There is no shortage of massage establishments and the nearest franchise is on every corner offering you run of the mill massage.So, what's the difference? In our medical state of the art clinic, atmosphere you will not find some of the typical associations people have with massage. There are no robes, no furry slippers, and sleepy music, you can expect your session to be focused, functional, and treatment targeted to get you back on your feet and/or to keep you going on our maintenance plan. Thousands of patients who visit us in our community are utilizing clinical massage to get them through an injury, or to maximize physical health, mobility, and flexibility at any age. At Orthomed Massage Clinic we only staff highly skilled therapists that are clinically trained to work with your health providers for injury treatment, injury prevention, and wellness self care and maintenance.Each therapist has gone through rigorous training, meets state licensing requirements, meets safety requirements, and is required to maintain exceptional educational certification based on current evidence based research.