
Many older adults experience report feeling joint pain when the temperature drops, and while there are a number of theories to explain why, the exact cause remains unclear.
Experts have proposed several possible explanations.
Dr. Elaine Husni, a rheumatologist at the Cleveland Clinic, suggests that one potential factor is low barometric pressure.
Barometric pressure refers to the weight of the air around us. On days with low barometric pressure, the air feels lighter, and this change can cause the tendons, muscles, and surrounding tissues in our joints to expand.
This may lead to increased swelling and discomfort, particularly in already inflamed joints.
Additionally, cold weather can cause blood vessels to constrict, reducing blood flow to extremities like your toes and fingers, which can lead to increased pain and stiffness.
However, despite these theories, there is no conclusive evidence that directly links weather changes to increased joint pain.
A Counterpoint to Weather-Related Pain
Professor Manuela Ferreira, a pain expert at the University of Sydney, analyzed 11 high-quality studies involving over 15,000 participants. Her research indicates that, while many people report more pain during colder weather, factors like temperature and pressure do not seem to directly trigger pain in joints.
Instead, Ferreira suggests that pain may be more linked to changes in behavior during different weather conditions.
For example, colder temperatures can lead to reduced physical activity, which may contribute to increased stiffness and discomfort.
That being said, this doesn’t mean the pain people experience during colder weather isn’t real.
So, What Can You Do?
Even if cold weather isn’t the primary culprit, it’s important to address any pain you’re feeling. Here's what you can do:
Consult a Physician: Be open with your doctor about when and where you feel pain. They can help assess other factors, such as behavioral habits, that might be contributing to your discomfort.
Keep Moving: Continue to exercise indoors. Strengthening your muscles and bones can reduce pressure on your joints, helping to alleviate pain and stiffness.
Maintain a Healthy Diet: Especially if you have arthritis, managing your weight is crucial. Excess weight can put additional strain on your joints, particularly the knees.
Prioritize Rest: One study found that quality sleep is linked to reduced knee pain from osteoarthritis. According to the Arthritis Foundation, resting your joints can also help alleviate pain and inflammation.
Whether or not weather changes directly cause pain, factors like reduced physical activity and other behavioral changes in colder months can contribute to discomfort. It's important to listen to your body and consult with your physician to address pain effectively. By staying active, maintaining a healthy diet, and prioritizing rest, you can better manage joint pain, regardless of the season.
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