Avoid arthritis pain in cold weather health

If you’re feeling pain in your bones as the weather gets colder this time of year, you’re not alone. Some of us feel increased joint pain in the winter, and people with arthritis suffer from this more than others, but why do arthritis symptoms often worsen during cold weather? Is there anything we can do to deal with the effects of this cold?

Tamsin Joyce, physiotherapist and director of integrated clinical services at Nuffield Health Bournemouth Hospital in Britain, told The Independent: “Arthritis is a degenerative condition of the joints, which is basically wear and tear on the joints in the body that causes inflammation, stiffness and pain. It can affect people.” “At all ages, especially if it is congenital, but it usually gets worse with age after the fourth or fifth decade.”

The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Joyce explains: “Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and affects the soft cartilaginous lining of the joint. Over time this lining can become worn down and inflamed and can leave areas of bone exposed, leading to increased pain and changes in joint position and loading. Inflammation Rheumatoid arthritis is different because the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing the bone and cartilage to break down.”

What are the warning signs we should pay attention to?

The most common symptoms of arthritis are joint pain, a feeling of stiffness, inflammation in and around the joints, limited joint movement, warm, red skin over the affected joint, and muscle weakness and wasting, according to the British National Health Service website.

Many people find that these symptoms worsen when the weather gets cold.

“Arthritis can be worse in cold, wet weather,” Joyce explains. “For some, the drop in atmospheric pressure can cause muscle tendons to stretch, putting more pressure on an already overcrowded joint. Some people experience an increase in pain sensitivity, a decrease in blood flow, and Muscle spasms and increased joint stiffness.

What factors increase the likelihood of developing arthritis?

“Family history, obesity, excessive exercise or joint loading at work, worsening over time, specific metabolic diseases such as diabetes, and pre-existing conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout can all be factors that increase a person’s chances of developing arthritis,” Joyce points out.

What are the treatment options for arthritis?

While there is no definitive cure for arthritis, there are several treatments that can help manage pain and inflammation and maintain joint function.

“This includes physical therapy which may include prescribing exercise, promoting healthy lifestyles and weight loss (if appropriate), advice on regulating effort and good posture, hydrotherapy and exercising in the water,” Joyce points out.

Doctors often also prescribe painkillers – such as paracetamol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or opioids – to patients depending on the severity of the pain.

In some severe cases, joint replacement surgery is considered.

“Joint replacement can be a major, positive life change supported by subsequent physiotherapy to support recovery,” says Joyce.

Here are some tips on how to manage arthritis symptoms in cold weather

• Stay warm.
• Keep moving.
• Take vitamin D.
• Eat healthy food.