Why do some people experience increased joint pain in the winter? Learn about the connection between winter weather and painful joints.
If you suffer from some type of joint condition, these winter months may cause extra aches and pains. Weather changes, particularly cold weather, can affect the joints and lead to pain, weakness, stiffness, and soreness. The following is an overview of the connection between cold weather and joint pain and how to manage it.
Cold Weather and Joint Pain
According to some studies, changes in barometric pressure in the atmosphere (which are common in the winter) can increase pressure in the joints and cause pain. In addition, cool temperatures can lead to stiffer joints and less mobility, all of which can be aggravated by limited physical activity (common during cold weather).
If you suffer from certain health conditions, you are at an increased risk of experiencing joint pain and associated symptoms. These health conditions include arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and fibromyalgia.
On its own, arthritis can cause swelling, pain, stiffness, and a limited range of motion in joints. However, once you combine it with cold temperatures, individuals with arthritis can experience increased pain during winter.
People with carpal tunnel syndrome can also expect their symptoms to get worse during cold weather. Since cooler temperatures can cause muscles to expand and restrict circulation, it can lead to increased pressure on the median nerve and make it difficult to move your fingers and wrists.
Lastly, those with fibromyalgia generally feel pain and tenderness throughout their body. There are various factors that contribute to this pain, including stress and physical activity. However, cold weather may also contribute to worsening symptoms.
Managing Joint Pain
Fortunately, there are several things you can try to alleviate some of the joint pain you feel during the winter months. For instance, you can keep your body warm by dressing in layers when outside, taking a hot bath, or applying a heating pad to the affected areas.
You can also exercise regularly, which can help ease joint pain and keep your joints flexible; just make sure to warm up before exercising. Exercise can also help you maintain a healthy weight, which can reduce pressure on your joints. The treatment you choose will depend on the pain you experience and the cause, so talk to your doctor about ways to find pain relief during the winter.
Finally, you can also take supplements to help support your joint health. For example, Joint Health Support promotes fortified cartilage, reduced inflammation and swelling, lubricated joints, and joint gap increase (and less rubbing). In other words, if you’re looking for a boost to your joint health, then try Joint Health Support.