I blogged about this more extensively a few years ago, but this polar vortex is worth at least a brief reminder of an overlooked fact: exposure to cold windy conditions can aggravate neck pain, especially for patients with underlying moderate degeneration and post traumatic scar tissue formation in the collagen of ligaments and muscle fascial layers.

Cold and wind exposure results in two phenomenons : vasoconstriction i.e. diminished blood flow to superficial tissues as the body tries to conserve energy for core organs, and protective posture of the neck and shoulders: hunched forward with trapezium muscles drawn up to your ears. Neither of which is helpful for chronic neck pain.

Remember to keep your cervical spine covered with an additional layer of warmth and insulation. A good neck gaiter, scarf, turtle neck or fully zipped up collar is all it takes.