Southern Utah summers are beautiful, but for many people living with chronic pain, rising temperatures can also bring increased symptoms. From migraines and joint pain to swelling and nerve irritation, heat can make chronic conditions more difficult to manage.
Providers at Southwest Spine and Pain Center say understanding how heat affects the body may help patients better prepare for the summer months and recognize when symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Why Heat Can Increase Pain Symptoms
When temperatures rise, the body works harder to stay cool. Blood vessels expand, fluid shifts throughout the body, and dehydration becomes more likely. For some people, these changes can increase inflammation, swelling, headaches, fatigue, and pain sensitivity.
“Many patients notice their symptoms flare during the summer months, especially in Southern Utah, where temperatures can become extreme,” said Jon Obray, MD, a double board-certified pain management physician who trained at Johns Hopkins University and completed pain fellowship training at Mayo Clinic. “Heat affects everyone differently, but it can contribute to worsening pain in certain conditions.”
Inflammation and Joint Pain
People with arthritis and other inflammatory conditions often report increased stiffness, swelling, or aching during periods of extreme heat. Heat can cause blood vessels to dilate, which may increase swelling in already irritated joints and tissues. In addition, dehydration may reduce joint lubrication and contribute to muscle stiffness, cramping, and discomfort.
Summer activities can also unintentionally contribute to flare-ups. Yard work, hiking, summer travel, sports, and long periods of standing may place additional stress on painful joints and muscles.
Migraines and Heat
Heat is also a common trigger for headaches and migraines. Dehydration, bright sunlight, disrupted sleep, and overheating can all contribute to migraine attacks. Even mild dehydration may trigger headaches in people who are already prone to them.
“Many patients don’t realize how sensitive the nervous system can be to heat and dehydration,” said Shawn Allen, MD, neurologist at Vista Healthcare. “For patients who already struggle with migraines or chronic headaches, even small changes in hydration, sleep, or heat exposure can sometimes trigger significant symptoms.”
Southwest Spine and Pain Center works closely with providers across the Vista Healthcare network, including neurology specialists, to help coordinate care for patients with complex neurological and chronic pain conditions when additional evaluation or treatment is needed.
A Comprehensive Approach to Pain Management
“Southwest Spine and Pain was founded in 2011 in Southern Utah to meet a need where we felt there was a deficiency in pain care,” said Derek Frieden. “There were not many interventional pain management physicians in the region, so we assembled a group of fellowship-trained interventional pain physicians who trained at some of the top programs in the country. Those programs include Johns Hopkins, Mayo Clinic, and Harvard. The care patients receive in this region matches anything available elsewhere in the country.”
Today, Southwest Spine and Pain Center provides advanced interventional pain management care throughout Utah, helping patients access specialized treatment close to home through minimally invasive and comprehensive treatment options designed to improve function and quality of life.
Tips for Managing Summer Pain Flare-Ups
While not every flare-up can be prevented, there are steps that may help reduce symptom severity during hot weather:
- Stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Avoid prolonged outdoor activity during peak afternoon heat.
- Take breaks during physical activity.
- Use cooling strategies such as shade or fans.
- Monitor swelling or sudden symptom changes
When It May Be Time to Consider Pain Management
Occasional soreness after activity is normal, but persistent or worsening pain should not simply be ignored as “getting older” or “just the heat.” If pain, swelling, headaches, or discomfort begin limiting daily activities or reducing quality of life, it may be time to consider a pain management evaluation.
At Southwest Spine and Pain Center, providers work with patients throughout Utah to create individualized treatment plans designed to help patients stay active, improve function, and better manage chronic pain conditions.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment, visit SWSP.com or call 435-215-0257.
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