Valentine’s season isn’t just for chocolates and flowers—it’s also the perfect time to show yourself some love with self-care for your body. After the holiday rush and winter workouts, many adults find themselves dealing with neck stiffness, back pain, or sore joints. While it might be tempting to head to the ER or an urgent care clinic, there’s a better way to treat your aches: seeing a PM&R (Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation) specialist.

Why the ER Isn’t Always the Answer

Emergency rooms are designed for life-threatening conditions—not musculoskeletal injuries. While ER staff can rule out serious problems, they often cannot provide specialized treatments for joint, spine, or soft tissue injuries. This means you may leave with temporary pain relief but no long-term solution.

PM&R specialists, like those at California Sports and Spine Institute, are trained to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions and post-injury pain. Whether it’s a strained neck, low back pain, or shoulder injury from a winter sport, we focus on comprehensive care and long-term recovery.

Winter Injuries Are Common

From shoveling snow to indoor workouts or outdoor winter sports, cold-weather activities can put extra strain on your muscles and joints. Common injuries we see include:



• Muscle strains and sprains
• Chronic neck or back pain flare-ups
• Knee or shoulder pain
• Postural pain from holiday stress or sitting at home

Early evaluation by a PM&R specialist can prevent chronic pain, reduce recovery time, and help you safely return to your favorite activities.

Self-Care Tips to Prevent Winter Pain

• Warm up properly before any activity—stretching is key!
• Stay hydrated and maintain good nutrition for muscle recovery.
• Listen to your body—don’t push through sharp or persistent pain.
• Use ergonomic supports at work or home to protect your spine.

Treat Yourself Right This Valentine’s

This February, give yourself the gift of relief and long-term wellness. Instead of a quick fix at the ER, trust a PM&R specialist who understands MSK injuries and can create a personalized treatment plan for your body.

Call us today at (818) 338-6860 or (626) 460-1096, or email info@californiasportsandspine.com to schedule your evaluation. Treat yourself with care this Valentine’s—you deserve it!