Did you know that weather changes can impact your joint pain? It’s a common complaint among individuals, and researchers have been trying to figure out the reasoning behind it for years. Unfortunately, there is no one answer that everyone agrees on.
What is the Reasoning Behind It?
Some researchers suggest that when the barometric pressure changes outside, the pressure within your joint may also increase or decrease, causing additional stiffness and discomfort. Other theories state that as we age and our cartilage breaks down, the nerve endings are exposed and become more sensitive to colder weather.
The reason for weather-related joint pain is still a mystery, but what we do know is that it can be very uncomfortable. If you’re struggling with increased joint pain, our physical therapists can help. We’ll develop a custom treatment plan to relieve your pain and get you back to your normal activities.
Common Causes of Weather-Related Joint Pain
Arthritis
This is a common cause of weather-related joint pain. Arthritis is the swelling and tenderness of one or more of your joints. The main symptoms are joint pain and stiffness, which can be worse on days when the weather is cold, damp, or humid.
Fibromyalgia
This is a disorder that causes muscle pain and fatigue. People with fibromyalgia are more sensitive to pain than people without the disorder. They may also be more sensitive to changes in temperature.
Osteoarthritis
This is a type of arthritis that happens when the cartilage that cushions your bones breaks down over time. The main symptom is joint pain that gets worse as you age.
Rheumatoid arthritis
This is a type of arthritis that happens when your immune system attacks the lining of your joints. It can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness. The symptoms may be worse on days when the temperature changes abruptly or it’s very cold outside.
Inflammation
This is a process that happens when your body’s white blood cells and chemicals protect you from infection or injury. Inflammation can cause pain, swelling, redness, and warmth.
What You Can Do to Ease Weather-Related Joint Pain
There are a few things you can do to ease weather-related joint pain:
• Use a heating pad or ice pack: Applying heat or cold to your joints can help relieve pain.
• Exercise regularly: Exercise helps increase blood flow to your joints and muscles. It also helps reduce inflammation.
• Eat a healthy diet: Eating a diet that’s high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce inflammation.
• Stay warm: When it’s cold outside, dress in layers to stay warm.
How a PT Can Help With Inflammation or Painful Joints
If you’re struggling with increased joint pain, our physical therapists can help. We’ll develop a custom treatment plan to relieve your pain and get you back to your normal activities.
We will approach your situation with a comprehensive evaluation. This will help us determine the root cause of your pain and create a treatment plan that’s tailored specifically for you. We may use a combination of techniques, including manual therapy, stretching, and exercises to help you find relief.
If you’re struggling with weather-related joint pain, call us today at 570-208-2787 or email us at cawleyptfrank@gmail.com to schedule an appointment. We’ll help you find relief so you can get back to your normal life.
