Winter joint pain affects many adults, whether caused by age, chronic illness, previous injury or another underlying condition. If you feel more joint pain than usual when the weather turns cold, there are some things you can do to help manage it.
Stay Active
Cold weather is known to cause stiff joints, and stiffness often leads to pain. If you are already sore, it may be uncomfortable to get moving, but once you do, you will most likely feel less pain. You may be able to prevent winter joint pain by staying active year-round. Physical therapy may be one way to manage chronic pain.
Keep Warm
If cold weather contributes to your winter joint pain, you may be able to lessen it by keeping warm. Turn the heat inside your home to a comfortable temperature and keep blankets conveniently placed, if needed. Be sure to dress appropriately when heading out, especially in bad weather.
Prevent Weight Gain
Wintertime, especially during the holidays, is notorious for contributing to weight gain. Even a few pounds can increase joint pain considerably, so be aware of what you eat and keep active during the colder months to prevent it. You may need to work with your medical providers or physical therapists on a plan to maintain or even lose weight.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Eating a balanced diet is essential for maintaining a healthy weight, but it can also help with joint pain by preventing illnesses that may contribute to joint pain. Eating well is even more important if you have any chronic illnesses that cause joint pain. You should speak to your doctor, a medical specialist or a dietician to create a diet plan that works well for you.
Drink Enough Water
Proper hydration is important for overall health but can also help keep your joints hydrated and lubricated properly. Staying hydrated can help you feel more energized and ready to move so being physically active and maintaining a healthy weight are much easier.
You don’t have to suffer from chronic joint pain any time of year. Call Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians today to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists who can help diagnose the cause of your pain and create a treatment plan to address it.
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