7 Ways to Decrease Your Winter Arthritis Pain
It isn’t a myth.
During the winter, the number of people who seek treatment for arthritis surges.
And cold temperatures are to blame.
How colder temperatures bring more arthritis pain:
By Increasing Pain Sensitivity
In colder temperatures, the body’s pain receptors become more sensitive.
By Slowing Circulation
When temperatures are mild, the fluid circulating throughout our joints keeps them well-lubricated.
They can operate smoothly and pain-free or with less pain.
But as it gets colder, the fluid thickens and doesn’t circulate as well.
It’s like driving a car on motor oil manufactured for optimal performance during the spring and summer — it’s hard on engine parts in the winter.
By Making Tissue Swell
Barometric pressure is the denseness or weight of the air.
When winter hits, the air gets heavier, putting more pressure on the body’s tissues.
The tissues swell and cause added tension between joints.
Seven ways you can decrease winter arthritis pain:
1. Exercise
People tend to get less exercise in the winter.
But exercise increases your heart rate and increases circulation, which is good for your joints.
Swimming, stationary biking, elliptical training, and other low-impact exercises can help decrease joint pain.
2. Drink Enough Water
It’s easy to forget to drink enough in the winter because you don’t sweat.
In addition to the many adverse health effects, research suggests dehydration can make you more sensitive to pain.
3. Use Heat Therapy
Try to get your hands (And the rest of you!) on all things heated in the winter.
Heated packs, electric blankets, saunas, hot tubs, heated pools – it’s all soothing for the joints.
4. Take Vitamin D
The sun is the body’s natural source of vitamin D, and people tend to get less sun exposure in the winter.
Vitamin D deficiency increases your risk for osteoarthritis and might increase sensitivity to arthritis pain.
5. Get Enough Omega 3s
Eating enough fish rich in omega 3 fatty acids such as salmon and taking omega 3 supplements may decrease joint inflammation.
6. Take OTC Pain Medicine
Sometimes you need to knock out a pain flare-up.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories such as aspirin and ibuprofen can provide temporary relief.
7. Enjoy A Massage
They’re relaxing, and they feel great.
A natural alternative to drug and clinical treatments, massage can decrease arthritis pain when maintained for months.
Get Treatment for Winter Arthritis Pain at Texas Pain Physicians
Being armed with ways to lessen your arthritis pain during the winter season can help a lot!
But if you continue to experience pain and discomfort that interferes with your life, it may be time to see a pain specialist.
Our doctors can give you treatments and lifestyle strategies to relieve your arthritis pain.
Call Us Today!
To find out more, give us a call at (972) 636-5727 or reserve an appointment online.
