However, there is not a clear understanding and current scientific evidence to support the relationship between cold weather and joint pain. Regardless of the science, your personal experience is the most important factor. We have put together some actions you can take to reduce your arthritis, joint, and back pain.
1. Keep Track of Weather and Pain Levels
One of the major scientific hypotheses suggests the changes in barometric pressure contributes to joint pain. Depending on the weather condition, low pressure is generally associated with cold, wet weather. While dry conditions signal high pressure, which reduces the probability of joint pain. People who are sensitive to these weather changes should keep track of weather patterns and record how these changes affect their pain. Implementing this daily habit will give you a better idea of how to plan your day and become familiar when your joint pain increases.
2. Take Your Medicine in Bed
Waking up on a cold day may keep you from crawling out of your warm, cozy bed. Take a few extra minutes in the morning, relaxing underneath the cover by keeping your medication for joint pain within reach of your bed. Not only will you have time to relax, but taking your medication can relieve unpleasant pain when starting your day.
3. Invest in a Smart Thermostat
Some people experience joint flares because of huge temperature fluctuations. A smart thermostat allows you to create automatic and programmable temperature settings based on daily schedules, weather conditions, and the ability to control heating and cooling from your device. The smart thermostat is energy efficient, more precise than a traditional thermostat, and can be one of the ways to reduce your joint pain.
4. Give Yourself a Massage
Cold weather is the result of muscles tightening up, increasing pressure, and painful inflammation in joints. Self-massage is a quick way to relieve tight muscles surrounding the joint. It’s helpful to learn simple self-massage techniques that you can do at home for immediate relief.
5. Try New Active Activities
One reason why your joint pain may increase when it’s cold is that more people are less inclined to move around or go outside. Try new activities like doing light yoga, Pilates, or taking a short walk will not only benefit as exercise, but it can help warm your body and reduce joint pain.
6. Take a Hot Bath
Soaking in a hot bath is one of the best ways to treat joint pain and stiffness from arthritis. The heat and moisture help loosen inflammatory chemicals in your joint that cause arthritis symptoms. For further relaxation, add Epsom salt. Epsom salt has been used for hundreds of years to ease all kinds of aches and pains. Soaking in an Epsom salt bath is speculated to get into your body through your skin. Though it hasn’t been proven, just soaking in water can help relax your body.
7. Visit the Chiropractor
Monitto Chiropractic can help you with muscle tension and joint pain by reducing restrictions and misalignments in your spine and other joints. These adjustments can improve spinal motion and improve your joints from inflammation. Visit our clinic today for a consultation and let us assist you with your health.
Are Some People More Susceptible Than Others?
Everybody’s body reacts differently to cold weather; however, people with arthritis and chronic joint and back pain are even more vulnerable to feeling discomfort. Whether you suffer from a previous sports injury, joint aches, and pains, or tight muscles, there are many ways to help relieve pain during the winter season.
When Should I Consult a Doctor?
If you are experiencing any unusual or new symptoms like swelling, redness, difficulty putting pressure on, or using the joint, it’s a good idea to consult with your physician. However, if you have consistent or severe pain that becomes disabling, seek medical attention right away. Regular visits to Monitto Chiropractic can prevent going to the doctor’s office. Contact us today if you have any questions or comments. Monitto Chiropractic is ready to serve you!