With the dropped temperature, chronic pain like neuropathy increases. When the body is exposed to cold, the body’s extremities get less blood flow. With this reduced blood circulation, the hands and feet start feeling nerve pain.
When the temperature changes and starts going down, it starts putting pressure on the nerves. It sends the signal to the brain. The perception of pain grows when the nerve signals act slowly because of the increased pressure. The cold weather also makes the soft tissues firmer and tightens everything resulting in muscle spasms.
The cold weather is a challenge to patients or people suffering from neuropathy. The body slows down the blood circulation to preserve the temperature. The less blood flow intensifies the symptoms of neuropathy and increases damage to the already affected peripheral nerves. This is a concern for people who feel numbness and tingling in their feet and hands. The cold measuring ability is compromised as they already have experienced the warning signals from their body.
The Tips to Deal with Nerve Pain
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Clothing
You must wear all the winter essentials. Include a good quality coat, gloves, hat, thick socks, and scarves when you are outside to protect yourself from the cold. These items prevent the body heat from leaving outside and stop the cold temperature from getting you. Keeping the body heated and all covered helps the blood flow and prevents muscle stiffness. You must layer the socks and also keep the hands covered.
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No Coffee
You may feel good sipping a hot cup of coffee, but it is making bad than doing good to your body. When it is cold outside, avoidance of caffeine beverages is always recommended. High caffeine amount narrows the blood vessels temporarily and restricts blood flow to the body’s extremities.
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Have an Indoor Break
You may love to play with snow outside, take a short break, or walk around the city in the chilly weather. Stop doing this if you have to make it a habit. Do not stay outside for a prolonged period unless it is necessary.
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Do Exercise
As a neuropathy treatment, you must do light exercises or, as instructed, low low-intensity cardio program for muscle warm-up and good blood circulation. It keeps away the neuropathy induced by the cold temperature. You can incorporate gentle movements like yoga, walking, lightweight training, and elliptical. A gently heated swimming pool will keep the muscles warm and tension-free.
Further tips
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Quit smoking, as it can slow down blood circulation.
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Reduce your alcohol intake, as excessive consumption can cause vitamin deficiency, leading to damaged peripheral nerves.
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Use comfort measures like massage, massage tools, or flexible splints for support.
Visit us at Oklahoma Spine & Pain Management for neuropathy treatment in OKC.
**Disclaimer: This content should not be considered medical advice and does not imply a doctor-patient relationship.
