Spring is when flowers bloom, sunlight returns and warmer weather begins. Most of us have been inside for a few months, counting down the days until we can enjoy being outside again. However, this means that our bodies may not perform at their fullest, which could lead to injuries if we try to jump into workouts and other activities. Below are some tips to help you prepare for and make the most of springtime in Madison, Wisconsin.

Check Your Shoes

Even the highest-quality shoes wear out. Before you run, jog, hike, or cycle, inspect your shoes thoroughly. Remember to check that the sole is wearing evenly and not affecting your foot strike or gait. If the soles show wear, replace the pair of shoes. Custom foot orthotics may provide excellent arch support, keep your foot in the proper position, and offer cushion and comfort.

Get Ready for Allergies

Early spring, or Allergy Season, can cause headaches, sneezing, congestion, inflammation, and rashes. Try a saline spray to cleanse your nasal passages once or twice a day. Be sure to change your air filters in your home, dust often, and keep windows closed when pollen is high. After spending time outside, consider taking a shower before bed. Proper hydration and eating Vitamin C and Quercetin-rich foods such as cantaloupe, apples, and raspberries can help your body fight off allergens.

Ramp Up Your Physical Activity

While you may want to jump back into your spring routine, most people are less active during winter. Start slow and ramp up your physical activities over time. Keep a water bottle with you at all times to maintain hydration, and be sure to stretch for a few minutes at the beginning of each day and before all physical activities.

Protect Your Skin

We've been bundled up and stayed indoors for most of the winter, so it is essential to protect your skin outdoors. Sunscreen, hats, or even UV-blocking clothing can help reduce the wear on your skin. Avoid being outside mid-day, when the sun's rays are most direct and intense. Remember to take frequent breaks out of the sun and stay hydrated.

Work Smart

Spring provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities, both work and play. Try to maintain good posture on a riding mower. Avoid carrying heavy objects by using a cart, wheelbarrow, or dolly. Minimize bending while weeding or planting by kneeling with kneepads. Consider switching to tools with better grips and cushioning so there is less fatigue. Using the right size tool prevents you from straining to use them.

Chiropractic Care For Spring Time Activities

Whether you're getting active in the great outdoors, managing allergy symptoms, recovering from an injury, or participating in spring sports, taking care of your body is essential. Consider incorporating LSM Chiropractic into your wellness routine to optimize your health and vitality! With these tips and strategies, you can fully spring into health and enjoy the season.

Migraine Headaches

Migraine headaches are normally described as throbbing or pulsing. The pain is typically moderate to severe and worsens with physical activity. Other symptoms include nausea and sensitivity to light, sound, or smells. These types of headaches can last between a couple of hours and three days. Check out this infographic that details migraine headaches!

Neck Tension Headaches (Cervicogenic)

Approximately one in five headaches arises from a problem in the neck and is classified as neck tension or "cervicogenic headaches." Cervicogenic headaches are most commonly one-sided, but occasionally may be present on both sides of the head. Pain often radiates from the base of your skull toward the top of your head and sometimes over your eyes. And, as the name implies, neck tightness is frequently present.

Cluster Headaches

Cluster headaches are by far the least common of these three and occur in a cluster or on one side of the head. This pain is typically stabbing or piercing. These types of headaches only last between 10 minutes to 3 hours and laying down often worsens the pain. Other symptoms include watering of the eye and nasal congestion on the side of the headache. Cluster headaches are often triggered by alcohol.

Trigger of Headache and Migraine Pain

A common trigger for migraine and neck tension headaches is limited movement of the joints in your upper cervical spine. Normally, each of the joints in your neck moves freely and independently. Sometimes, restrictions in the upper cervical spine initiate a painful cycle of stiffness, muscle tightness, and joint inflammation. This may cause irritation to the sensitive nerves leading from your neck into the back of your head.

Natural Treatment for Headaches

Now that you know a little more about the different types of headaches, you may be able to figure out which type is leaving you in pain. Chiropractic care is proven method of treating migraine pain and treating headache pain naturally, without pills or medication. Our doctors of chiropractic can perform a gental and safe spinal manipulation (aka chiropractic adjustment) which can help you find relief from migraine pain or relief from headache pain.

The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this page are for informational purposes only. The purpose of this post is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics, including but not limited to the benefits of chiropractic care, exercise and nutrition. It is not intended to provide or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your chiropractor, physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this page.