Winter in Wisconsin can be a difficult time for those with back problems. Besides the obvious problems surrounding snow shoveling, many people find back pain increasing in the winter for no apparent reason. The cause is often related to the slippery conditions caused by ice and snow.
For many people the problem is a combination of various factors that result in increased soreness in the back. The problem starts with a weak or otherwise structurally unstable back. This can be from past trauma to the spine, obesity, or just wear and tear to the back from lifestyle. When this person finds themselves on slippery or otherwise unstable footing, the muscles of the back, hips and legs tighten to help keep the body upright. If this happens a lot then the muscles get tired and sore, or lock into painful spasms. Tight muscles can also make it difficult adjust your balance quickly to avoid a fall and a new injury.
If the muscles are tightening and causing pain there are treatments in the way of massage, acupuncture, fire cupping and chiropractic that can help. If you are prone to this type of condition there are a couple of tricks that can help keep you more stable and decrease the need for your muscles to tighten.
Hiking boots -- Check out buying good quality hiking boots for the winter. The new high tech boots are designed to be light and give a sure footing in the most difficult of environments. Try on many boots until you find a boot that really makes you feel confident in your footing.
Strap on cleats -- Many stores have various metal cleats and other traction devices that stretch over your boots. These can give you a very secure footing in icy conditions.
Some back pain patients find that wearing cleats and/or hiking boots all through the winter greatly reduces the overall back pain that they experience. When comes to staying healthy in winter, also remember your scarf
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