Avoiding Joint Pains in the Cold

As the weather gets colder, many people with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or another condition which can cause more pain and stiffness. Many doctors say that it is a myth that weather changes cause flare-ups, but a majority of patients are saying otherwise.

There have been centuries of people complaining about joint pain getting worse whenever the weather is stormy or cold. Although there aren’t many studies which support this claim scientifically, there are studies that claim increased pain may be caused by barometric pressure, constriction of blood vessels or muscle spasms.

Here are a few theories regarding cold weather relating to stiffness:

• Increased pressure in the synovial fluid that surrounds the joints could also be caused by the same barometric pressure change that causes storms to brew. Increased pressure is what could cause pain on the bones and joints.
• During cold weather, blood vessels in your extremities constrict. This in turn could cause decreased circulation, especially in your hands and feet, which could cause pain.
• Muscles spasms could also occur around the affected joints due to cold weather.

A majority of patients that suffer from increased joint pain in cold weather are prescribed heat by pain management doctors in order to alleviate pain.  Here are a few tips for keeping your bones warm:

• Warm up before getting out of bed by using an electric heating pad
• Using moist wet cloths- Many patients say this is more effective than the dry heat from heating pads
• Invest in gel wraps- Purchase them at the drug store or create your own by filling old socks with dry rice and heating it in the microwave
• Drink warm liquids- This will help to heat your body from the inside out
• Sit in a hot tub, take a warm bath, or sit in a sauna
• Flex before starting your day by bending your stiff joints
• Pre-heat your car before getting into it in the morning
• Exercise- When you’re warmed up, get in a few hours of exercise each day to keep your joins and ligaments flexible.

If you’re experiencing extreme joint or muscle pain, contact Blackstone Orthopedics & Sports Medicine. We have experienced orthopedic surgeons that are happy to assist you by providing you with knowledgeable health and fitness information. Visit our website or call (800) 725-3037 to schedule an appointment at any of our 8 locations.