How the Changing Seasons Affect Joint Pain
- Posted on: Oct 15 2019
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Tips and Tricks for Living with Joint Pain in Cooler Weather
Do you have a family member that swears they can tell when a storm is coming in their joints and bones? Maybe you’re the family member. Either way, though it is known as an old wives’ tale there may be some truth to it. If you notice your joint pain worsens in the cooler temperatures, this blog is for you.
Who Is Affected?
Studies have shown that even a 10-degree drop in temperature can lead to an incremental increase in arthritis pain. Meaning that when the temperature changed, there was a noticeable increase in the joint pain felt by those with arthritis. This weather-related joint paint can be found in patients with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other arthritic conditions. Though it can technically affect any load-beating joints, it’s usually found in knees, hips, elbows, shoulders, and hands.
So, What Can I Do?
If you’ve noticed the cold weather worsens your pain, here are some tips that might help.
- It may seem obvious but stay warm!
- Dress in layers, especially over your knees and legs or wherever you notice the pain.
- Make sure your home is well heated
- Wear extra pairs of gloves or socks, especially thermal socks
- Use heating pads applied directly to affected joints
- Keep hydrated. Drinking water is important to your health and being even mildly dehydrated can make you more sensitive to pain.
- Stay active. Light exercise keeps muscles strong especially around damaged joints, which will ease your pain in the long run.
- Be proactive, take a pain reliever or anti-inflammatory if a storm or cold weather is forecasted.
- Keep a positive attitude. Remember that storms pass and seasons change and it will not last forever.
- Bone and joint supplements may also be able to help when paired with the above tips
Though it’s not a perfect science, being able to forecast precipitation, especially rain, due to your joint pain has been proven to be real. It’s important to listen to your body and understand what it’s trying to tell you. If you feel excessive pain or would like to discuss other treatment options give our office a call today: (707) 544-3400.
Posted in: Joint Sprain, Orthopaedic Care
