As an experienced Bristol osteopath, I wanted to share my top tips to avoid common health problems in December, so that we can all try to enjoy a relaxing, restful and healthy Christmas period.
The weather turning colder often brings increases in musculo-skeletal aches and pains for patients, with particular problems in the spinal areas such as neck and low back.
As it gets colder, we tend to hunch our shoulders, often creating neck and shoulder stiffness and pain. This can even lead to secondary issues such as tension headaches.
I advise that patients visiting me try to relax, loosen up their shoulders, and gently stretch this area. Keep moving, and do regular shoulder shrugs.
Wear a scarf and hat to keep the neck, shoulders and head warm.
Often there is a reduction in activity levels in winter, which can cause an increase in problems due to reduced body conditioning, core stability and overall flexibility.
So, as an experienced Bristol osteopath, I recommend that patients think about stabilizing their “core”, which might involve pilates, yoga, as well as stretching regularly.
With the shorter, duller December days, it often means that people are doing less outside activity. There can also be less activity at local gyms and sports centres. More so right now if gym are closed due to a Covid-19 lockdown. This impacts us all.
Shorter days can also exacerbate mental health issues. To help with this I advise my patients to try to get outside when they can, and to enjoy fresh air and Mother Nature in Winter.
Throughout winter, many patients visiting my Bristol osteopathic clinic may experience a seasonal lowering of Vitamin D. As a nation, we are generally depleted in Vitamin D particularly in the winter months.
This is really important for body health, bone health, mental health and overall immune resistance. This is also especially topical with Covid-19, as there is some evidence suggesting Vitamin D levels are related to how well we cope with the disease.
As an experienced Bristol osteopath, my advice would be to get as much daylight as possible. Eat a vitamin-rich diet and consider taking a Vitamin D supplement.
It is also worth remembering that in December ice can arrive on Bristol streets at any time, with slips causing nasty injuries. Take precautions and practical action to prevent this - wear grip enhanced shoes, and grit driveways and steps.
I recently wrote a News post with hints and tips on how to maintain overall health and stay positive during the second Covid-19 lockdown, which will be useful during December, Christmas, and well into the New Year – please visit here to see the article in full.
Some patients visiting me experience acute back or neck pain. My Osteopathic treatments aim to reduce pain and enable them to enjoy better body movement.
For many patients visiting my leading Bristol osteopathy clinic, spinal pain can be related to an old grumbling back or neck issue that needs period attention and treatment.
My Maintenance Osteopathic Treatments (MOT) can be particularly helpful here – check out this recent News post to find out more.
At this time especially, and with the impact of Covid-19 throughout 2020, look out for your friends, family and neighbours. It’s been a tough year, so let’s not complicate it with back pain or issues that can take longer to heal.
I advise my patients to take care of themselves, and focus on using December to keep mental and physical health a top priority this Christmas.
From my Bristol osteopathy clinic in BS6, I hope that you find festive cheer to finish 2020, as well as celebrating advent by giving yourself a break and a treat over the Christmas holidays.
I am here as a Bristol osteopath to guide, advise and treat my patients as usual, and will be raring to go as we head into the New Year to help you all.
To find out more about the full range of osteopathic treatments that I provide across Westbury Park, Henleaze, Redland, Clifton, Cotham and BS6 in general, please visit here.