Seasonal Allergies and Back Pain

Category: Back Pain | Author: Stefano Sinicropi

Back Pain & Seasonal Allergies

Millions of Americans suffer from seasonal allergies, and while the most common symptoms may be sneezing and sniffling, others have to deal with inflammation and joint pain. This inflammation can cause problems on its own, but it can also exacerbate problems like osteoarthritis of the spine. Today, we take a closer look at how to treat neck and spine pain caused by seasonal allergies.

Allergies, Temperature Changes and Spine Pain

Allergies from pollen often peak in the spring, while temperature-related issues can cause problems in the fall. Seasonal allergies can cause the body’s immune system to overreact to pollen or something in the environment, and inflammation is the body’s natural defense mechanism. When joints inflame, movement becomes more painful and it can cause soft tissues to become compressed.

Temperature changes can also cause problems in your joints. Changes in temperature and barometric pressure can lead to swelling inside the joints, potentially restricting movement or causing painful movements. Again, this can cause problems on its own, or it can complicate certain conditions like osteoarthritis of the spine.

Preventing Back and Neck Pain Caused By Allergies

If you want to prevent or treat back or neck joint pain caused by seasonal allergies or temperature changes, consider these tips:

  • Talk To Your Family Physician or a Spine Specialist – Your general practitioner will probably give you some medication, but a spine specialist can walk you through some exercises or stretching techniques to help stop joint pain in its tracks.
  • Shower – If you’ve been outside in the elements and exposed to allergens, be sure to shower regularly when you get back inside. Staying in the same clothes you wore outside can leave you exposed to allergens long after you’ve come inside, so be proactive and help keep allergens off your skin and clothes.
  • Exercise – Exercise is great for your spine all year round, but it’s especially helpful for calming inflammation. If pollen counts are high, keep your workout indoors to limit your pollen exposure.
  • Dress Warm – If you know that the temperature is going to fluctuate throughout the day, make sure you dress appropriately and stay warm. Staying warm helps your joints function smoothly and can preventing spinal joint swelling.
  • Medications – Be sure you are taking your seasonal allergy medications regularly, even if you don’t think you’ll be outside that often throughout the day. Staying ahead of your allergies and joint inflammation is better than treating the aftermath, so follow your doctor’s orders when it comes to taking your seasonal medications.

For more information about the link between seasonal allergies and spinal inflammation, reach out to Dr. Sinicropi’s office today.

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