A client came to me last week for mid-back pain. After the treatment, his pain was much improved, but he returned a few days later with notable tension in the shoulders. He thought it was related to the Arctic weather we’ve had these last few days.
This was a good observation. I know from experience that cold weather often precedes shoulder pain.
The coldest place I ever practiced massage therapy was Chicago. Winter comes early there, digs in its heels, and sticks around till April. When that first real cold snap hits, massage therapists know to expect lots of clients coming to us for relief from shoulder pain. Why? Well, when people are cold, we tend to hunch up our shoulders. Combine that with some shivering, and the shoulders carrying the weight of a heavy coat, and maybe add a break in typical exercise routines because we’re hunkering down inside instead of going out to do . . . anything. It’s a recipe for achy shoulders (and neck!)
Are you feeling it? You can wait it out and the pain will likely subside eventually. Or you could make an appointment for a delightfully warm massage, find some relief, and enjoy your winter.
Appointments are available to anyone, on WSU campus. I look forward to working with you.
Rachel Creager Ireland, LMT 