Winter Tension: Why your neck & shoulders feel so tight and what you can do about it!

As the weather cools down, many people notice a telltale ache creeping into their neck, shoulders, and upper back. Sound familiar? You’re not imagining it, winter tension is a real thing, and your upper traps and neck muscles are often the first to feel it.

Let’s break down why this happens, what makes it worse, and what you can do to feel better this season.

As temperatures drop, we instinctively hunch our shoulders, tighten up, and move less. This combination is a perfect storm for muscular tightness, particularly in the upper trapezius, levator scapulae, and surrounding neck muscles.

You might feel:

• A dull ache at the base of the skull

• Stiffness when turning your head

• Tight, sore shoulders that just won’t relax

• Tension headaches that start in the neck

Aggravating Factors: Several habits and conditions can make this winter tension worse:

• Poor Posture: Working from the couch, phone scrolling, or hunching at a desk can all lead to postural strain.

• Cold Muscles: Muscles tighten in response to cold, reducing blood flow and increasing discomfort.

• Stress & Fatigue: Winter can affect our mood, and stress is often stored in the neck and shoulders.

• Reduced Activity: Less movement = less circulation and more stiffness.

  
  

How Myotherapy & Massage Help:  Hands-on treatment is one of the most effective ways to address winter-related tension. Here’s how:

• Relaxes tight, overworked muscles (especially the traps and neck)

• Improves circulation to cold, stiff areas

• Reduces stress and nervous system tension

• Restores movement so you feel lighter and more mobile

Want to supercharge your results? Pair your treatment with an infrared sauna to really warm up the muscles and enhance your relaxation and recovery.

 At-Home Exercises & Self-Care:

Here are a few simple things you can do at home to keep winter tension at bay. Please consult your therapist to ensure exercises are suitable for you.

• Chin Tucks (Posture Reset)

• Shoulder Rolls

• Neck Stretch (Upper Trap Release)

• Foam Roller/massage ball - various options

• Heat Therapy (wheat bag, warm bath/shower, infrared sauna)

  
  

Final Tip: Don’t wait for it to get worse!

Neck and shoulder tension often creeps in quietly, and can lead to more serious issues like headaches, nerve irritation, or frozen shoulder if left untreated. This winter, stay proactive with your health!