It’s common to complain of joint pain flare-ups on changes in the weather, and many doctors say that people can feel more joint pain during monsoon and winter. The reason for joint pain during weather change is due to Barometric pressure, it is the pressure of the air. Along with humidity, precipitation and temperature barometric pressure can affect joints. Research is still going on the matter for more clarity.
Joint pain is commonly associated with injuries or ageing. Folks in their 30’s are prone to experience pain in joints, bones and muscles. However, joint disorders are more common in older people or athletes. Many people who do not experience joint discomfort at other times of the year may experience it during the winter.
Cause of weather-related joint pain
The cold, low temperatures are the major cause of joint discomfort in the winter and rainy season. In cold conditions, our bodies experience muscle spasms, which can aggravate our joints and cause stiffness. Our bodies' pain receptors become more sensitive in the winter, exacerbating our already excruciating misery. Vitamin D (calciferol) levels can drop in the winter due to decreased sun exposure, which can harm bones and joints. Because of the reduced pressure in the environment, our tissues are prone to expanding, straining and injuring our joints. There are several techniques to alleviate joint pain with a weather change especially in the winter.
People with joint pain, especially arthritis, may be more sensitive to changes in air pressure. how? When the cartilage that cushions the bones in a joint wears down, nerves in the exposed bones may sense changes in pressure. The pain may also become more severe if the weather prevents you from moving as you normally would. When it's cold and rainy outside, people tend to stay indoors and relax, and inactive joints can become stiff and painful.
Tips to Ease Weather-Related Joint Pain
You don’t need to move to another climate. There are many things you can do at home to relieve joint pain.
Stay Warm
When temperature drops, keep yourself warm. Take warm showers or baths, wear warm clothes. Keep the indoors warm. Your joints love warmth.
Pain Relief Balm
For an instant comfort and relief instead of pain killer pills prefer pain medications like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Zenopain gel is a NSAIDs medication available over the counter. It contains sesame seed oil, linseed oil and menthol. You can use it anytime anywhere because it's non-sticky, no stain and with no strong smell.
Work out
Maintain a healthy weight and stay active. Try exercises that are gentle on your joints, like yoga or swimming. This helps increase muscle and bone strength. When exercising outdoors, start with some light stretching. Do not put stress on your joints unless necessary. Ask someone else to lift these heavy boxes.
Eat well, sleep well
Make sure you take care of your health in general, like with good nutrition and getting enough sleep. Eating a balanced diet that includes lean protein, more fiber, refined carbohydrates, and low saturated fats will help your body function better in the winter. It is important to eat easily digestible foods such as vegetables. Eating vegetables that have diuretic properties, such as cucumbers and carrots, helps eliminate waste products from the body. Eat more fiber.
Hype hydration
Hydration is necessary all year round, but most importantly during the winter months. When it's sunny and warm, we often think about drinking more water, but in winter, the air is dry and we're more likely to feel tired and achy from dehydration. Remember to drink plenty of water. Try to drink eight glasses of water every day, especially if you exercise or stay active.
Yes, Omega 3 Fatty acids
Did you know, omega-3 fatty acids reduce joint inflammation! Adding omega fatty acids into your diet can prevent your joints from becoming stiff. To reduce winter joint pain, eat foods high in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, walnuts, flax seed, and avocado.
Massage
When it comes to pain, it's common for part of it to come from the joint and others from the muscles that surround it. When pain is experienced automatically, the hand goes there to massage for relief. It shows that your body needs a massage. As per expert studies, relishing an hour-long massage every week for 2 months can lessen discomfort and pain of muscles and joints.
Note these points as the weather is changing as winter is arriving with many festivals. Stay strong, stay fit.