It is currently 89 degrees in Midtown Manhattan and many New Yorkers will want to turn on either the air conditioner or a fan before sleeping. These appliances make summer in New York City bearable but they also have the potential to cause excruciating neck and back pain.
Direct skin exposure to a prolonged stream of cold air can cause severe muscle strain. The cause is similar to the long term exposure to ice – Hunting Effect.
When a body part is initially exposed to ice, the capillaries constrict, blocking the flow of blood to the region. After 10 – 15 minutes, the capillaries dilate to restore blood flow. If the ice is still present, the capillaries will again constrict, robbing the areas downstream of oxygen and food. The downstream muscle will cramp, strain, and spasm. If the ice continues to be applied, the muscles will begin to break down resulting in a more serious strain.
Prolonged exposure to fanning air or the chilled air of an air conditioner can also invoke the Hunting Effect and result in muscle strain.
The remedy is simple. Block the moving air by covering your body with a thin sheet or blanket. The moving air will then be unable to directly touch your skin and the Hunting Effect will not occur.
Please contact Dr. Jeffrey Linder at Bryant Park Wellness in New York City with any questions regarding this blog, chiropractic, and wellness.
