Does Changing Weather Really Affect Arthritis and Joint Pain?
Posted on September 17, 2020
You may have known someone with arthritis who claimed to be able to predict the weather by the pain they feel in their joints. If you were skeptical about their claim, you may be surprised to know that scientists have found overwhelming evidence indicating that there really is a strong link between certain weather conditions and the pain arthritis sufferers feel.
Here are some of the more notable findings from multiple studies on the topic:
- Humidity has long been thought to intensify joint pain, but studies have found evidence that the pain may be further worsened when moisture in the air is combined with colder temperatures.A direct correlation has not yet been fully established, but many researchers consider that colder weather can make joints stiffen and more sensitive to movement, thereby causing increased pain in areas affected by arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
- Other scientists believe that increased pain during chilly, wet weather may be attributed in part to the fact that people often stay ‘cooped up’ indoors when the weather is cold and rainy. This can lead to a reduction in activity levels, which in turn will further contribute to arthritis pain.
- It’s not exactly clear how moisture and cold impact joint pain, but studies have definitely found a connection between them. Additional evidence has also pointed to barometric pressure (atmospheric pressure) as being a common culprit for arthritis and joint pain.When barometric pressure changes, whether increasing or decreasing, the change in the weight of the surrounding air can cause the body’s tissues to expand and contract. This pressure fluctuation may be responsible for increased pain in the joints.
If you suffer from arthritis and experience intensified pain symptoms during cold, rainy or fluctuating weather conditions, consult with your pain management physician to learn ways to effectively manage your discomfort. A qualified pain specialist can recommend effective methods for relief according to your individual situation and the nature of your condition.
Here are a few of the alternative methods your pain doctor may recommend to help ease your pain:
- Increased activity levels
- Hot / cold therapies
- Stress reduction techniques
- Topical ointments
- Limited sugar intake
- Prescription pain medication
(Note: you should never consider any arthritis remedy without first consulting your pain doctor. A method that relieves pain for one patient may have adverse effects for someone else; it depends on the individual condition and intensity of arthritis pain.)
Do You Suffer from Arthritis or other Chronic Pain Conditions?
At Riverside Pain Physicians, we are committed to helping our patients live a more pain-free quality of life, regardless of what’s causing your symptoms. Our skilled physicians are highly experienced in treating pain that results from all types of medical conditions.
We are dedicated to relieving your discomfort with compassionate, individualized care and state-of-the-art technologies for pain relief.
If you suffer from chronic pain, let us help to ease your suffering — reach out to us today at 904.389.1010, or click here to schedule an appointment online.
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