Why Seasonal Changes
Can Trigger Pain
And How to Prepare
Late summer in Ontario is a unique season—warm afternoons, cooler mornings, and that subtle shift in light that reminds us fall is on its way. While the change feels refreshing, it can also be a time when pain starts to flare for many people. Old injuries ache a bit more, stiffness sets in, or fatigue creeps up even if you’re sleeping well.
Why? Your body is already adapting to environmental changes—temperature, humidity, and daylight hours. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), seasonal transitions are considered times when the body’s balance is more easily disrupted, making it important to take extra care of yourself.
Why Pain Often Worsens During Seasonal Shifts
From a Western medicine perspective, cooler temperatures can cause muscles to contract, reducing flexibility and increasing stiffness. Atmospheric pressure changes can also influence how joints feel, especially if you have arthritis or past injuries.
From a TCM perspective, late summer is governed by the Spleen and Stomach—organs central to digestion, energy production, and nutrient absorption. If your digestive system is weak during this time, it can lead to what TCM calls “dampness” in the body. Dampness is heavy, sluggish, and can settle into joints and muscles, making them feel sore or achy.
The Late Summer “Earth Element” Connection
In TCM, late summer is linked to the Earth element. It’s a season of grounding, nourishment, and stability—yet it’s also a time when excess humidity and dampness can accumulate. Think about how the air often feels heavy and sticky at this time of year. This same “dampness” can show up internally if digestion is overworked or weakened, which can worsen inflammation and pain.
How to Support Your Body Now
1. Eat warm, cooked meals
Even though it’s still warm outside, your digestive system benefits from lightly cooked foods like steamed vegetables, soups, and stir-fries. These are easier to process than cold salads or iced drinks.
2. Keep moving—gently
Incorporate daily stretching, light walks, or gentle yoga. Movement helps prevent stiffness and keeps circulation flowing, reducing the likelihood of pain flare-ups.
3. Stay hydrated, but skip the ice
Room-temperature or warm water supports digestion without “cooling” the stomach too much from a TCM standpoint.
4. Watch for “damp” foods
Limit heavy, greasy, overly sweet foods, and dairy during this season — they can increase internal dampness and contribute to pain, fatigue, or sluggish digestion.
5. Listen to your body’s cues
Seasonal change is a good time to slow down a little, get extra rest, and address small discomforts before they become bigger problems.
Final Thoughts
Late summer is your window to prepare — strengthening your digestion, keeping your joints flexible, and building resilience before the cooler months arrive. By making small, intentional changes now, you’ll help your body stay balanced, your energy steady, and your pain under control. And as always, acupuncture can support your health, easing aches and pain while restoring balance.
Clinic Announcement:
As I’ve previously shared on social media, I’m currently on medical leave following an accidental fall that caused a fractured pelvis and knee. I had originally planned to return to the clinic on September 1st. However, after consulting with my orthopedic specialist, I’ve been advised to allow myself more time for healing. I’ll now be resuming work on October 1st. Thank you for your patience and support as I focus on recovery, so I can return fully ready to care for you.
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💚 Thank you for being part of our clinic family. Whether you see Dr. Andre, myself, or both of us, know that we’re here to support you—season after season—with compassion, care, and healing rooted in tradition.
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