The Science of Shivering

The Science of Shivering and When to Warm Up

When Jack Frost finally visits and sends chills down your spine, it is not just a signal to break out the thermal underwear and socks. Shivering, that involuntary head shaking I do when cold, is your body’s way of saying, “It’s time to turn up the heat!” But what is the science behind these actions, and when should you be concerned? Dr. Aaron Workman of one of the highest rated auto injury care medical facilities in the Lexington area takes a cold hard look at shivering.

The Basics: It is All About Warming Up

When your body temperature takes a nosedive because of cold weather, your inner thermostat starts to adjust. Think of it as a little scientist in your head who is trying to maintain the perfect body temperature of about 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. When the mercury drops, this little guy calls in the big guns, your muscles. They start twitching and vibrating, and bam, you are shivering. This causes your body to rev up muscle activity, which results in a generation of heat. It is like a built-in heating system, except it is powered by involuntary muscle contractions.

The Why: Survival

Your nervous system designed shivering as a survival tactic. In the wild, shivering could be the difference between life and death. It is your body’s way of saying, “Hang in there. I’ve got you!” Shivering is your ally against frostbite, hypothermia, and other freezing threats. If you are out in the cold and you start to shiver, your body is yelling at you to find a warmer spot.

The Worry: The Concerning Chill

While shivering in the cold is perfectly normal, there are times when shivering might raise concern. If you are shivering uncontrollably, and you have not been out in a snowstorm, it might be time to see what is going on.

When it is not induced by cold, this movement can be a signal of underlying health issues. It is typically my first sign of being ill. I tend to start the uncontrollable shivering and the only way to quell it is submerging myself in a hot bath. Typically, by the time I make it there, my neck muscles have shivered so much they have also given me a headache as a prize. Fever can set your body’s internal thermostat into a frenzy. If you have caught a bug and your temperature is shooting up, shivering might be your body’s way of getting you to focus on your health.

What about shivering when you are not exposed to freezing winds or battling a fever? Well, that is when a trip to your primary care physician may be in order. Shivering, especially if accompanied by other unusual symptoms or discomfort, would still be your body’s way of telling you that something is off. Whether it is a thyroid issue, an overactive immune response, or just a weird misfire of your body’s internal heater, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional. In the end shivering is a natural reaction of your body that you should embrace, but also get checked out when needed.

— This article is written by Aaron Workman, DC, one of the members of Chambers Medical Group’s team of car accident chiropractors who offer a variety of treatments and therapies ranging from diagnostic testing to various soft tissue therapies for car accidents and injuries in Kentucky.

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Have you been in a car accident? If you or somebody you know has been in a car accident, be sure that you seek medical attention from a car accident doctor or car accident chiropractor to treat your injuries. Visit Chambers Medical Group  to receive world-class medical treatment for your injuries.

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