Go Physical Therapy

Holiday Prep: Staying Pain-Free During Seasonal Activities

October, 2025

The holidays are a time for joy, celebration, and family gatherings — but they can also bring unexpected aches and pains. Between decorating, shopping, traveling, and cooking, your body may experience more strain than usual. At Go Physical Therapy, we want you to enjoy every moment of the season without discomfort. Here’s how to stay pain-free and active during the holidays!

1. Lift Smart When Decorating or Carrying Gifts

Those heavy boxes of decorations or shopping bags can easily lead to back or shoulder strain if not handled properly.
Tip: Always bend at your knees, not your waist. Keep items close to your body, and avoid twisting while lifting. When possible, ask for help with heavier objects — teamwork keeps everyone safe!

2. Stay Active Despite the Cold

It’s easy to skip exercise when the temperature drops, but movement helps maintain flexibility, strength, and circulation.
Tip: Try short indoor workouts, stretching routines, or a brisk walk in warm layers. Even 15–20 minutes a day can make a big difference in keeping your muscles and joints healthy.

3. Avoid Overuse Injuries from Repetitive Tasks

Gift wrapping, baking, or hanging lights often means repeating the same motions for long periods — which can irritate your wrists, shoulders, or back.
Tip: Take frequent breaks, stretch your arms and neck, and change positions often. If you start feeling discomfort, stop and rest before it worsens.

4. Watch Your Posture While Traveling

Long car rides or flights can cause stiffness and low back pain.
Tip: Use a small pillow or rolled towel to support your lower back, and take standing breaks every hour or two. Simple movements like shoulder rolls and ankle circles can improve circulation and reduce tightness.

5. Listen to Your Body and Don’t Ignore Pain

Pain is your body’s way of signaling that something’s wrong. Ignoring it can turn a minor issue into a more serious injury.
Tip: If you notice persistent discomfort, soreness, or stiffness, schedule a session with one of our physical therapists. We can help identify the cause and create a personalized plan to relieve pain and prevent future injury.

Enjoy a Pain-Free Holiday Season with Go Physical Therapy!

The holidays should be about joy, not joint pain! Our team at Go Physical Therapy is here to help you move comfortably and confidently this season. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or just want to stay proactive, we offer personalized care to help you feel your best.