This winter, you might be experiencing persistent back pain. Pain in the back can be caused by a multitude of reasons, including the cold weather, lack of physical activity, and shoveling snow. Back injuries can be increasingly difficult to treat during the winter months. This blog will explore a few steps you can take to help manage existing back pain and when to seek medical care for proper treatment.

The walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth provides quality acute injury treatment seven days a week. Walk right into the clinic to be seen by one of our board-certified medical providers and start feeling better fast. You can visit the clinic on a walk-in basis or check-in online today!

How To Avoid Back Pain in the Winter

Cold weather can make it easier for some people to become sedentary. However, prioritizing your physical health throughout the year is not only important in avoiding illness, but injuries as well. By staying active, you can help maintain flexibility and strengthen your back muscles. The colder temperatures can even make your joints and muscles stiffer and therefore, more vulnerable to injury. Try incorporating some movement into your daily routine– either inside or outside. You can follow a stretching tutorial online, or go for a light jog around your town – just be cautious of ice and slippery surfaces!

As mentioned, the colder temperatures in the winter can lead to an increased risk of muscle stiffness. Make sure to dress warmly and wear layers to keep your muscles warm and avoid the potential for injury. You can even apply heat to your back to further relieve pain. When shoveling, it’s crucial to use proper technique. Shoveling snow leads to a majority of back injuries in the winter– so remember to bend your knees, use your legs, and take breaks when you need them. 

When are back injuries most common in the winter?

Most people know that back injuries commonly occur during the winter months, so it’s important to be aware of the specific activities and events that can increase your risk. At the forefront is shoveling– which is responsible for thousands of back injuries each year. 

Below is a list of more instances where back injuries can occur:

• Shoveling your driveway
• Spending long hours in the cold
• Hanging up winter decorations or lights
• Participating in high risk activities outdoors
• Skiing or snowboarding
• Spending long hours inside not moving
• Exercising outside on icy paths

When To Seek Treatment for Back Pain and Injuries

If your back pain is severe, worsening, or persisting for a prolonged amount of time, it may be crucial for you to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider at an urgent care center can comprehensively examine your overall condition and determine the right course of treatment for acute injuries. It’s always beneficial to speak to a professional about ways you can find symptom relief at home, and how to prevent back pain from exuberating. 

At AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth, one of our experienced medical providers can help plan a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific case and needs. The clinic is open seven days a week with walk-in visits welcomed. If you have any additional questions on acute injury treatment, back pain relief, or other services we provide, please call our office directly at (908) 677-5900