Winter in Oklahoma may not always bring heavy snow, but cold temperatures, icy mornings, and sudden weather changes can take a real toll on your body. At The Goodson Family Chiropractic Center, Doctor Sunny sees a noticeable increase in back pain, neck stiffness, and joint discomfort during the colder months.
The good news? With a few smart habits and proper care, you can stay comfortable, mobile, and pain-free all winter long.
Why Cold Weather Makes Pain Worse
Cold temperatures cause muscles to tighten and joints to stiffen. Reduced activity during winter months can also weaken the muscles that support your spine. Add in awkward movements like shoveling, slipping on ice, or long drives in tense postures, and it’s easy to see why winter aches show up fast.
Smart Shoveling Tips to Protect Your Back
Even light snow or ice removal can strain your spine if done incorrectly.
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Warm up first: A few minutes of light stretching helps prevent muscle strains.
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Lift with your legs: Bend at the knees, not the waist, and keep the shovel close to your body.
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Avoid twisting: Turn your whole body instead of twisting your spine when tossing snow.
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Take frequent breaks: Overexertion is one of the most common causes of winter back injuries.
If pain starts while shoveling, stop. Pushing through discomfort often leads to longer-lasting issues.
Maintain Healthy Posture While Driving
Winter driving often means longer commutes and more tension behind the wheel.
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Adjust your seat so your hips are slightly higher than your knees
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Sit back fully with your head supported by the headrest
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Keep your shoulders relaxed and avoid gripping the steering wheel tightly
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Take breaks on longer drives to stretch and reset your posture
Poor driving posture is a major contributor to neck pain and headaches during winter.
Prevent Stiffness with Daily Movement
It’s tempting to stay bundled up and sedentary during colder months, but movement is essential for spinal health.
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Stretch your neck, shoulders, hips, and lower back daily
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Take short walks to keep joints mobile
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Use gentle heat to relax tight muscles
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Stay hydrated — dehydration contributes to muscle stiffness
Small, consistent movements can make a big difference.
How Chiropractic Care Helps During Winter
Regular chiropractic adjustments help maintain proper spinal alignment, improve joint mobility, and reduce muscle tension. Many patients find that consistent care during winter helps them stay active, avoid flare-ups, and recover more quickly from minor strains.
Doctor Sunny focuses on personalized care plans designed to keep your body functioning at its best — even when temperatures drop.
Don’t Let Winter Slow You Down
Cold weather doesn’t have to mean chronic pain. With proper posture, smart movement, and preventative chiropractic care, you can enjoy a healthier, more comfortable winter.
If you’re experiencing stiffness, back pain, or headaches this winter, contact The Goodson Family Chiropractic Center to schedule an appointment and stay pain-free all season long.