How to Limit Our Joint Pain When the Seasons and Temperatures Change

Can you feel that storm coming in your knees? Back pain increases with a cold front? So can lots of people with arthritis. Some doctors think that these stories of weather causing joint pain are old wives’ tales, but science is backing up the phenomenon.

Are You Weather Sensitive?

Some people are definitely more sensitive to weather and specifically the changes in the weather than others. .

So it is more important that we take steps now to limit the onset of more pain and potential and joint damage. Here are a few helpful ways to try and

limit our seasonal symptoms:

• Increase vitamin consumption—a good diet is foundational to your fight against joint pain and damage, but diet may not be enough. Some studies suggest that arthritis patients don’t get enough Vitamin D, so it is important to load up on Vitamin D-rich foods.  Many experts recommend that you take pill supplements of Vitamins D, E, A and K for optimal joint health.

• Stay hydrated I am terrible at getting enough water especially if it’s cooler dehydration puts unnecessary stress on our joints. Drinking liquids regularly ensures that there is enough lubricant in your joints and that your joint tissue is operating at peak performance. There is also some evidence that lack of hydration may make you more sensitive to pain.

• Remain warm—it is important to keep your joints as protected from the cold as possible.  Wear extra layers when going outside to mitigate any damage the cold may inflict on you. I personally love Thermacare Heat wraps I buy them in bulk because when winter hits this is the only thing I truly can count on to keep my joints warm for hours . I put one on and go shopping a small walk and don’t feel as if my joints are going to snap.

• Maintain activity levels—you may not feel like going for a walk in a rain or snow storm, but you should still keep active. Lack of use can lock up joints and aggravate pain symptoms, so continue with your stationary bike or yoga even in the cold weather months.

• Warm water—whether it is swimming in a heated pool or soaking a hot bath, water can do wonders for your joints.  The penetrating warmth can loosen stiff joints and alleviate joint pain.  After soaking, gradually re-acclimate to the cold to prevent a shock to your system.No doubt I miss taking a bath so for me a warm shower also helps.

• OTC medications—depending on how severe your joint pain is, your doctor may recommend over-the counter medications like Tylenol or aspirin. Many of these medications can prove just as effective at relieving pain and inflammation as more potent prescription drugs.  Always discuss all of the drugs you take with your physician beforehand. And now they have Voltaren gel sold over the counter to rub on sore bones.

• Massage therapy—many patients suffer from muscle pain as well as pain from their joints.  Long-term pain can produce muscle contractions, but a massage can help relax tense muscles as well as stiff joints. There is also a powerful endorphin rush following a massage that will provide considerable pain relief.

• Restful sleep—many people experience changes in sleep patterns when the day shortens or lengthens.  Maintaining a restful sleep schedule is critical to healthy joints and pain mitigation.  Stick to your regular sleep schedule as much as possible. If you are having difficulty, discuss your remedy options with your doctor.

• Physical therapy—if you are not already seeing a physical therapist for your joint health, then a new season may be the ideal time.  Not only will you learn more about how to limit joint damage and optimize your health, but the therapy sessions should improve your joint function and pain symptoms.

• Remember Always talk to your pcp or ortho before starting or stopping anything new.

Disclaimer this blog is for entertainment purposes only and is never to be taken as medical advice.

Wishing you all a pain free day