lifestyle desk:- As the weather changes, many people start feeling different types of problems in the body. Joint pain is a common problem among them. Especially those who already have arthritis, osteoarthritis or any joint related problem, they may feel more pain, stiffness and swelling with the change in temperature. Many times people ignore it considering it to be just the effect of increasing cold, but some changes in the body can also be responsible for it. Let us know its reasons and safety measures.
Why does joint pain increase when weather changes?
Changes in temperature, air pressure and humidity can occur during changes in weather. In some people, the sensitivity of joints to these changes increases. Especially in already damaged or swollen joints, pain and stiffness may be felt more.
In cold weather, the muscles and surrounding tissues may feel a little stiffer. This affects the activity of the joints and pain can be felt while getting up, sitting or walking. However, the relationship between weather and joint pain is not the same in every person. Therefore, it is not right to assume that persistent or increasing pain is just due to the weather.
Which people may have more problems?
People who already have arthritis, osteoarthritis or other joint related problems may experience more symptoms when the weather changes. Joint problems can become common with increasing age. Apart from this, sitting in the same position for a long time, lack of physical activity and weight gain can also increase the pressure on the joints.
What to do for relief from joint pain?
keep body warm
Protect joints from exposure to too much cold when the weather is cold. Wear comfortable and warm clothes. Keeping areas that are painful or stiff can provide relief for some people.
do light exercise
It is not always wise to be completely inactive when pain occurs. According to your capacity, light walking, stretching or exercises that involve slowly moving the joints can be done. This can help in maintaining the mobility of the body. However, in case of severe pain or swelling, there may be a need to change the exercise method or take rest.
Do not sit in one place for a long time
If you sit in the office for a long time or remain in the same position at home, then get up every now and then and take a few steps. Light movement can help reduce stiffness in the body.
keep weight under control
Excess body weight can put more pressure on weight-bearing joints like knees and hips. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular physical activity can be beneficial for joints.
get enough rest and sleep
Constant fatigue and poor sleep can make the pain feel worse. Therefore, it is important to take adequate sleep and give rest to the body.
Use hot or cold compress wisely
Some people may find relief from stiffness with a warm, mild compress, while in case of swelling or injury, a cold compress may be helpful. Do not apply very hot or very cold things directly to the skin.
When should one contact the doctor?
If joint pain is persistent, gradually increasing or has started affecting daily activities, then it is important to consult a doctor. Apart from this, if there are symptoms like excessive swelling in the joints, redness, warmth, severe pain, fever or sudden difficulty in walking, then do not ignore it as just the effect of weather.
Especially if the pain started after an injury or the joint condition is rapidly worsening, medical evaluation may be necessary.
Don't ignore the pain
Joint pain may increase in some people when the weather changes, but every time the reason for this is not just the temperature or weather. Arthritis, old injury, wear and tear on joints, muscle weakness or other health problems can also be the cause of pain.
Therefore, in case of mild pain, focus on keeping the body active, warm, controlling weight and taking adequate rest. If the pain persists or swelling and other symptoms appear along with it, it is better to consult a doctor.