Winter is a time for wearing warm socks, sipping hot tea and staying under a blanket. While winter brings quite a bit of fun, it brings a chilling ache in the joints for some. The dropping of temperature brings about a more intense joint pain that affects the body more than during other seasons. But here comes the question: why does joint pain increase in winter? And what can be done to prevent it? This article explores the reasons for joint pain in winter and offers several useful tips to help you stay pain-free and enjoy your winter.
What Causes Joint Pain to Increase in the Winter
An increase in joint pain can be caused by quite a few factors, which will be explored below:
Cold Weather and Barometric Pressure
Have you ever heard people predict the weather based on their body parts? That is not an old tale because the weather does influence how our bodies feel. Cold weather causes the synoptic fluid in joints to become thicker, making it harder to move. Cold weather also causes the weight of the air (Barometric pressure) to drop, which in turn causes tissues to expand slightly and gives that stiff and aching feeling that causes stiffness and pain.
Lack of Vitamin D
Due to the cold weather, people tend to stay indoors for months, which means less sunlight absorption, which leads to a vitamin D deficiency.Vitamin D is crucial for the maintenance of healthy joints, but a deficit can lead to joint pain.
Muscle Tightness and Less Movement
In winter, our muscles contract to conserve heat, and this natural response pulls on joints and increases stiffness and pain. Winter also gives the feeling of remaining in one place and not wanting to get up and move around, and this reduced range of activity means that the joints are not getting enough exercise as needed. The lack of adequate movement leads to more discomfort and forms a vicious cycle.
Prevention Tips for Managing Joint Pain
- Staying Active: Regular exercise and movement keep the joints healthy, mobile and less stiff. Avoid intense exercises and try activities like yoga, light indoor workouts, cycling or swimming, which are low-impact and help keep stiffness away.
- Staying Warm: Wearing layers isn’t just for fashion but to keep your body and joints warm to avoid stiffness and pain. Using a heating pad and taking a warm shower in addition to wearing warm layers of cold, is a good way to protect your joints and bring joint pain relief.
- Eat and Hydrate Well: Drinking plenty of fluids helps maintain the elasticity of joint cartilage and keeps the joints well-lubricated. Eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like walnuts and salmon, is good for the body.
- The Use of Supplements and Assistive Devices: Talking to your doctor about the use of joint supplements like glucosamine and vitamin D can help manage the pain. Using assistive devices like canes or orthotics can reduce stress on the joints.
When Should You Consult a Specialist for Joint Pain
If you notice swelling, redness, severe pain and stiffness that doesn’t improve after these tips, see your doctor. It could be a flare or a medical condition that requires urgent medical treatment. Regular checkups can help manage the condition to prevent it from worsening. There are also medical alternatives, like the advanced joint replacement treatment in Mumbai, for when the joint is severely damaged and causing a lot of pain.
Conclusion
Winter is a beautiful season that brings snowfall and beautiful icy sights, but it doesn’t have to include increased joint pain. By understanding the reasons behind the increased pain and taking measures to prevent it, you reduce the risk you face. A little planning goes a long way; you can stay pain-free and enjoy the season to the fullest by taking the steps listed above. For more information, connect with Dr Divyesh Bukalsaria today.
