Chronic pain and cold weather really don’t mix well, so my priority at this time of year is to stay warm. Cold weather makes my pain much worse, so most of the winter I have to do whatever it takes to avoid the chill.
I’ve lived with chronic pain and circulation problems for many years, and I’ve always struggled with staying warm. Even in warmer seasons, I am normally wearing a few layers, so in the winter, I often resemble the Michelin Man.
A couple of weeks ago, the temperature here dropped to minus nine. But worse than that, our heating broke down at the same time. 🥶 Talk about bad timing! Thankfully, we have a log burner in the kitchen, but the rest of the house was freezing. It felt like I was entering Siberia every time I left the kitchen. I didn’t like it, but my chronic pain hated it even more, so I had to wrap up really well to try to stay warm.
I Need to Think About Staying Warm Because of My Chronic Pain
My trigeminal neuralgia is particularly sensitive to cold weather, especially cold wind. My back also reacts badly to chilly weather, as do my arthritic feet. And I have Raynaud’s, so my hands – and especially my feet – really start screaming if I let them get cold. I can’t bear it.
When it comes to staying warm with chronic pain, choosing the right clothes can make a huge difference. From head to toe, I need to protect myself from the cold. Over the years, I’ve learned to invest in soft base layers, and I also need thick, soft, warm socks. And if I dare to venture outside in wintry weather, I need more than just a winter coat – I can’t go out without warm gloves, a hat or hood, and something to cover my face.
For me, living with chronic pain, having the right winter woollies isn’t just about staying warm — it’s about protecting myself.
Shopping With Chronic Pain Is So Difficult
Shopping in person is tough — my back pain just can’t cope with wandering around stores. Occasionally, I enjoy a quick browse in some local shops if my husband can park right outside. Most of the time, though, I shop online. Some delivery companies can be a wee bit hit and miss, but Amazon and Royal Mail always deliver to me. I especially love Amazon because, most of the time, I get what I need the very next day. Shopping online really makes my life a lot easier.
I’ll share a few of my favourite purchases with you in this post – most are from Amazon, simply because I shop there the most.
I use Amazon affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase on their website. But please rest assured that it never costs you extra.
My New Winter Coat
A few months ago, my husband managed to park the car right outside our local Trespass store. He spotted a winter coat he was sure I’d like — and he was right! Even better, it was on sale. I tried it on and immediately fell in love with it. It’s fleece-lined, so soft, nice and long, and it has a hood — perfect for keeping out chilly winds.
I checked online later and discovered I could have bought it for even less on Amazon! That was a wee bit annoying, but I guess I helped the local economy that day. I was almost tempted to buy another one in a different colour, but that would’ve been a bit silly because I rarely go out anyway!
Keep Warm From the Inside Out
Base layers — these are a must. I always smile when I hear the term “base layers.” I’m old enough to remember when they were simply called long johns and vests! But whatever we call them, they’re vital in winter for keeping warm, especially if you live with chronic pain.
As soon as the cold hits my back, my muscles literally freeze up, which of course causes more pain. Wearing good base layers gives me protection from that. Natural fibres like silk or merino wool are often considered the best for keeping warm, but they can be expensive. Synthetic alternatives are gentler on the purse and are also very effective.
My husband loves Woolpower base layers, which are made from merino wool. There’s no doubt it keeps you warm, but the wool irritates my skin, so I opt for softer fabrics. When it’s really cold, I borrow my husband’s Woolpowers and wear them with my own underneath. Double base layers work well when it’s really cold.
Looking After My Facial Pain in the Cold
I’m sure nobody likes their head or face being cold. But when you live with trigeminal neuralgia or any other type of facial pain, it’s essential to cover up as even the slightest breeze can make the pain worse. My pain is bad enough without letting the weather add to it.
Snoods, hats, or even balaclavas are my go-to choices, and like with base layers, I always choose fabrics that aren’t scratchy or irritating. My favourite is fleece — it’s soft, gentle on my skin, and keeps me wonderfully warm.
I have to admit, I occasionally look as though I’m about to rob a bank while I’m wearing a balaclava, but at my age, I’m past caring what people think! I need to look after myself, and that means ensuring my face doesn’t freeze.
I’ve also written a dedicated post about protecting your face in winter weather, which has more detail about hats, scarves, and other practical tips. You can check it out here:
How to Protect Your Face From Cold Weather
My Mum’s Advice — Keep Your Neck Warm
My mum used to say, “If your neck’s cold, the rest of you will be cold.” I think she was right. Besides that, if my neck gets cold, I start tensing up — and then, well, you know the script. A fleece scarf tucked inside my coat works perfectly, and if I need to, I can pull it up over my face for added protection. Sometimes, though, a light or sheer scarf under my coat is enough to do the trick.
Hands, Feet & Raynauds — The All-Year-Round Problem
Keeping my neck warm certainly helps, but once my hands and feet start turning into ice blocks, that’s when the real battle begins – especially witha circulation issue like Raynaud’s. I do wish this were just a winter issue, but I’m afraid it’s not. Raynaud’s is something I deal with all year round, though it becomes much worse in winter.
Keeping my hands and feet warm isn’t just about comfort; it’s about preventing those painful flare-ups and avoiding chilblains. Over time, I’ve found a few simple things that make a big difference.
Looking After my Hands
Lots of stores now sell gloves designed for people with Raynaud’s. I haven’t tried those myself (yet!), so I’m not sure how good they are. You can also buy battery-operated heated gloves and microwaveable mittens. I think those mittens might be on my Christmas wish list – they do look very cosy, although maybe not very practical.
I opt for simple, thermal-insulated gloves. My all-time favourites are Heat Holders, especially the ones that convert to fingerless gloves, so I can use my fingers if I need to. Heat Holders are amazing — they actually have a tog rating!
Looking After My Feet
As well as Raynaud’s, I also have arthritis in my feet – a bit of a double whammy! I take medication every day for the pain, but earlier this year, it was so bad that I had to see my doctor. I presumed my arthritis was flaring up, but she thought it was due to my poor circulation. Then she noticed I had a chilblain, which confirmed her theory. That was during the summer months, so, yes, I dread cold winters.
Heat Holders also make my favourite socks. Just like the gloves, they have a tog rating. Heat Holders know the meaning of toastie toes. They’re so soft and thick, and they don’t cut into my legs — which is important, especially if you have circulation problems. I told my doctor these are the only socks I can wear, not just because they keep me warm, but because they really help with the chronic pain in my feet. It almost feels like my feet are being wrapped in a cushioned, protective layer.
Thermal slippers or slipper socks are also useful. They’re cosy, and you might not want to ever take them off your feet! Safety needs to be a priority when it comes to footwear. Make sure they fit well and that they have good non-slip soles.
Hand Warmers
I can’t write a post about trying to keep warm without mentioning hand warmers. Oh, my goodness – I have had so many over the years, and I would be lost without them. I don’t just use them for my hands though…my face, my back, my neck…I love those wonderful inventions.
When I first got hand warmers years ago, you had to press a little clicker inside to activate them, then boil them in a pan of water afterwards so they were ready to reuse. Now, most hand warmers are electric and give out a specific heat. (Hmm…another addition to my Christmas list, maybe!)
Charity Shop Bargains
I do love shopping online — it’s so practical if you’re disabled, or living with a chronic illness or chronic pain. But it really is nice to get out occasionally into a real shop with real people. There’s something special about seeing goods up close, feeling fabrics, and trying things before you buy.
I don’t get out often these days, but one of my favourite pastimes is browsing the local charity shop. I’ve found a few bargains there. My most recent bargain was a fantastic Mountain Warehouse fleece hoodie in one of my favourite colours — and wait for it… it was only £3.00! Can’t beat that, can you?
Wrap Up, Stay Warm and Hopefully Stop Your Chronic Pain From Screaming
Staying warm with chronic pain isn’t just about comfort — it helps reduce pain and makes life a little easier. From head to toes, a few good layers and cosy fabrics can make a big difference.
I hope my tips help you find what works best for you. Stay cosy, and always put your comfort first – winter is tough enough without adding extra pain.
You can also check out my earlier post on practical ways to stay warm with chronic pain, where I share tips for keeping warm at home during colder months.
Thank you so much for reading.
If this post resonated with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
And feel free to share it with your friends or support groups.
Take care,
Liz.
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Wrap up, stay toastie and be kind to yourself
I’m sorry you struggle so much in winter. I feel your pain, quite literally! I’m also glad to not be in Scotland with -9 degrees C temps. Brrrr!
Your new coat looks lovely! It’s a good price on Amazon so thanks for the link. I bought one from another similar store which was way too expensive but I was desperate… it’s warm and snug but it’s a ski jacket and very bulky. So it works well, but I’d like something a little more streamlined.
Your mum was wise – scarves are important! As are gloves and other ways to keep paws warm, especially with Raynaud’s.
Fab picks and suggestions, Liz. xx
Thanks for commenting Caz. I couldn’t believe the “sale” price was in the shop to the price on Amazon! I do wish I’d seen it there first. It’s a fairly lightweight coat, but so warm and waterproof. That was a nasty cold snap when the temperature dropped. I hope it’s not a sign of a really bad winter to come. I’ll be hibernating from now until April!!