As temperatures drop, those with arthritis may notice an increase in pain and stiffness. Winter months and cold weather can be challenging for people with arthritis due to several factors, including decreased circulation, changes in barometric pressure, and natural tensing of muscles and joints. Understanding how the cold impacts arthritis and finding ways to ease symptoms can make winter more manageable.
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis refers to joint inflammation, affecting millions of people worldwide. With over 100 types, arthritis often leads to joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and limited range of motion. Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint condition, and rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder, are the two most common types. Cold weather can exacerbate the symptoms of both, often making mornings especially difficult.
Why Does Cold Weather Affect Arthritis?
Cold weather impacts arthritis symptoms for a few reasons:
- Barometric Pressure Changes: Falling barometric pressure often causes tissues to expand, which can increase pressure and pain in already sensitive joints.
- Reduced Circulation: Cold temperatures can cause blood vessels to narrow, reducing blood flow to joints and muscles, which increases stiffness and discomfort.
- Muscle Tension: Cold temperatures often lead to muscle tightening as the body tries to conserve heat, further restricting movement and increasing stiffness around affected joints.
Tips for Managing Arthritis During Winter
While the cold can intensify arthritis symptoms, there are ways to manage discomfort:
- Stay Active Indoors: Low-impact exercises, like stretching, yoga, and swimming in heated pools, can help keep your joints flexible and ease stiffness.
- Layer Up and Stay Warm: Wearing thermal layers and using heated blankets or heating pads can help keep your joints warm, reducing stiffness and pain.
- Stay Hydrated: Even in cold weather, dehydration can impact your joint health. Drink water throughout the day to keep your joints lubricated.
- Try Warm Baths or Hot Showers: Heat can relieve joint stiffness and muscle tension. Consider soaking in a warm bath or shower to reduce inflammation and improve circulation.
How is Arthritis Treated?
At Enhance Center, treatment plans for arthritis are tailored to each patient. For managing arthritis pain year-round, including during colder months, they offer a variety of therapies:
- Hyaluronic Acid Gel Joint Injections: Lubricates joints to reduce pain and improve mobility.
- Homeopathic Injectables: Zeel® and Traumeel® provide natural pain relief.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: Uses your body's own platelets to aid in joint repair and reduce inflammation.
- COOLIEF® Water-Cooled Radiofrequency Ablation: This therapy targets nerves sending pain signals, providing long-lasting relief.
- Prolotherapy and Physical Therapy: Helps strengthen and support joints.
Specialized Treatments for Advanced Cases
For more severe cases, Enhance Center offers cutting-edge solutions like peripheral nerve stimulators for patients with failed joint replacements and OsteoCool™ for pain relief in cancer patients with bone tumors.
If your arthritis symptoms are flaring up this winter, call Enhance Center to schedule an appointment.
