UNFORTUNATELY some of us, who suffer aches and pains, know winter is coming long before it arrives.

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The cold weather makes our muscles and joints ache like we have fallen from a fourth floor window and old ghost injuries come back to haunt us.

Whether you have low back pain, arthritis, fibromyalgia, carpel tunnel, trapped nerves or just a bad knee or hip from that fall you had 30 years ago, winter can be a time when you feel old and in pain.

However, a Times Territory osteopath is now looking to put an end to all this.

Ian Norman, owner of The Hatfield Practice, said his best advice was to keep warm, drink plenty and keep off the caffeine and nicotine.

“Two of the many substances that cause blood to flow less freely are caffeine and nicotine these can leave you full of aches and pains slowing your bodies ability to heal,” he said.

“It may sound like common sense, but it needs repeating. The best way to avoid cold-related aches and pains is to stay warm, you know layers of under clothes!

“Dress warmly, even when you’re inside the house.

“Heating is expensive but you could invest in a heated under blanket for your bed, this will feel like warm heaven instead of the usual damp lettuce feeling cold sheets can give you.

“After a hot bath why not relax in your warm bed for a hour.

“You can also turn your heating system up a little, close doors and of course make sure you take opportunity with the grants for insulation so costs are kept to a minimum.

“Just remember the cold weather in the UK wont last forever,” Mr Norman added. “By keeping your body warm, your joints won’t stiffen up and hurt as much. Warm muscles and joints are less likely to stiffen or spasm which can lead to new injuries and renewed pain.”

His practice on Grounds Lane provides osteopathy, acupuncture, physiotherapy, massage and spinal manipulation and other holistic techniques all of which he recommends during the cold.

He added a regular gym routine would also help.

“There are many advantages to exercising these include increased joint function improved musle strength and the maintenance of a healthy level of bone density.

“If you don’t usually exercise start slowly with a relatively gentle routine before moving on to something more energetic.”

For advice and for treatment call 01707 888229 or click on the link above.