Why Arthritis Acts Up in the Cold
If you’re one of the many individuals dealing with arthritis, you might have noticed that the colder months bring about aches and pains in your joints. While cold weather doesn’t directly cause arthritis, it can certainly worsen its symptoms. Let’s explore why arthritis tends to be more challenging during winter and discover some practical tips to alleviate the discomfort.
Why Winter Aggravates Arthritis:
Joints generally function optimally in moderate temperatures. As the weather gets colder, the synovial fluid, acting like motor oil in our joints, becomes thicker, resembling sludge. This change contributes to increased joint stiffness and discomfort. Additionally, some individuals are so attuned to weather changes that their aching joints act as a signal for impending storms.
The Arthritis Foundation notes that frigid temperatures heighten pain sensitivity, slow blood circulation, and can lead to muscle spasms. Furthermore, joints can detect and respond to changes in barometric pressure, adding another layer of complexity to how weather impacts arthritis.
Winter-Related Arthritis Pain Relief:
While we can’t control the weather, there are simple steps you can take to support your joints during the colder months:
- Combat the winter chill with layered essentials like hats, gloves, and scarves. Enhance warmth using an electric heating pad or blanket, and unwind in a soothing hot bath to ease stiff joints.
- Stay Active!: Exercise acts as a formidable weapon against arthritis pain. Engage in regular physical activity to boost energy, enhance strength and flexibility, and trigger the release of feel-good hormones. Aim for a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly, gradually incorporating strength-training sessions.
- Make stretching a regular practice, especially before outdoor activities, to alleviate joint stiffness. Some beneficial stretches for your feet include upper and lower calf stretches and hamstring stretches.
- Be mindful about what you eat! While not a cure, dietary adjustments can aid in reducing inflammation and supporting overall health. Integrate omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods such as fatty fish, nuts, and seeds. Restrict intake of sugar and refined carbohydrates. Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric and ginger into your diet.
- Maintain optimal weight. Excess weight intensifies pressure on joints, exacerbating pain and stiffness. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial, particularly for weight-bearing joints like knees, hips, the spine and your feet! Remember that your feet are the foundation of your entire body.
- Monitor your vitamin D levels. Vitamin D deficiency is widespread and associated with heightened arthritis pain. Consult with your doctor for a vitamin D level test and supplement as needed.
- Be careful on surfaces! Winter surfaces pose slipping hazards. Navigate carefully, wear appropriate footwear, and use non-skid slippers to prevent accidents.
Restorative Recommendations at Align Foot & Ankle:
- Consider Class IV laser treatments for targeted inflammation reduction and natural healing stimulation.
- Explore restorative injections like RestoraJel™️ or 22-Bore™️, which harnesses the power of growth factors and live cells to reduce inflammation and activate the body’s natural healing mechanisms.
- Explore the benefits of 3000 mg CBD lotions/creams sold exclusively at doctor offices to alleviate pain effectively.
In conclusion, winter can be challenging for those with arthritis, but proactive measures can significantly improve your comfort. Assess how your joints respond to colder temperatures, make lifestyle adjustments, and consult with Dr. Ho-Ellsworth for personalized strategies to navigate the winter months with less pain in your feet and ankles. Remember, you don’t have to endure joint pain in silence – there are effective ways to manage and alleviate arthritis symptoms. https://restorajel.com
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