Have you been diagnosed with arthritis? Do you notice your joints hurt more when it rains, or when temperatures become colder? This increase in pain is real, but the good news is that there are steps you can take to lessen the effects of weather related pain. Let’s explore how Weather Affects Joint Pain and what you and do to better manage that pain when it comes up.
How Changes in Weather Affect Going Pain
Barometric pressure is measurement of air pressure in the atmosphere. When it rains, or is going to rain, there is a drop in barometric pressure. Why does this matter? When barometric pressure drops, muscles and tendons tend to expand. On a “good weather” day, barometric pressure is high. This pressure pushes against the body from the outside which keeps the tissue from expanding. In a normal joint, you may not feel the effects of this expansion, but in an arthritic joint this expansion places increased stress and strain through the joint capsule, which ultimately increases pain.
Temperature
Now let’s address how temperature can affect arthritis related pain. Studies have shown that for every 10 degree drop in temperature, arthritis pain has increased. When the weather gets colder, this affects the synovial fluid in your joints. On a typical, warm day the fluid in your joints is thin and acts as a lubricant to decrease joint friction with movement. When the fluid becomes cold, like with colder weather, this fluid thickens and makes the joints more stiff and thus making it more painful to move. While colder weather does not cause arthritis, it definitely can exacerbate symptoms associated with having arthritis. Colder weather can heighten pain sensitivity, slow blood circulation, and cause muscle spasms.
Should I Move?
All of this does not mean that you should move to a tropical climate to avoid winter weather. You are not alone with these weather related pain concerns, and the good news is that there are a few things that you can do to combat and decrease your pain levels.
Stay active
Exercise is the single best thing that you can do to decrease your arthritis related pain. Have you ever heard the phrase “motion is lotion” – this is true for your joints. Regular activity can help boost your energy levels and increase strength and flexibility. Exercise releases endorphins, which is a feel good hormone, and can ease your pain.
Stay warm
Dress yourself in layers to keep the body warm during periods of colder temperatures.
Find a hobby
Find an activity that you enjoy doing (while staying warm) to decrease risk of depression and anxiety related to high pain levels, or being stuck inside. Having a hobby can improve your mood and help you manage increased stress.
Understand that this is only temporary
Cold weather, or low barometric pressures, cannot cause further joint damage. While you may feel more pain, these conditions cannot worsen the disease. Studies have also shown that most people do adjust to their environment.
Summary
Give yourself some grace!! Winter season and rainy season can be a challenging time for someone diagnosed with arthritis. Take it one day at a time and try some of the suggestions above to help give some relief. If you need help with establishing a good exercise routine to strengthen the tissue around your painful joints, then give our office a call or book an appointment online with a licensed physical or occupational therapist.
