Does My Arthritis Dislike the Cold?

If you have been living with arthritis, you have probably noticed that the colder months seem to make your symptoms flare up. For many people with arthritis, the arrival of winter or a sudden drop in temperature can trigger discomfort, pain, and stiffness in the joints. But what is really going on? Does arthritis “dislike” the cold? Let’s take a closer look at the relationship between cold weather and arthritis.

The Science Behind the Pain

The exact reason why cold weather worsens arthritis symptoms is not fully understood, but several factors are believed to play a role:

Reduced Blood Flow: In cold weather, your body works hard to conserve heat, which can cause blood vessels to constrict. This reduced blood flow can lead to stiffer muscles and joints, making movement more difficult and painful.
Barometric Pressure: Cold weather is often accompanied by changes in barometric pressure (the weight of the air around us). Lower barometric pressure can cause tissues around the joints to expand, increasing pressure inside the joint and intensifying pain.
Decreased Activity: During the winter months, people tend to stay indoors more and reduce their physical activity. This lack of movement can lead to stiff joints and weakened muscles, which may exacerbate arthritis symptoms.

Coping Strategies for Cold Weather

If you notice that your arthritis symptoms worsen in colder weather, there are a few strategies you can try to help manage your pain and discomfort:

Stay Warm: Layer up and make sure your joints stay warm. Conservatively using heating pads or electric blankets can help, as can wearing warm gloves and socks to keep your extremities comfortable.
Exercise Regularly: Although the cold might make you want to hibernate, staying active can help maintain joint mobility and muscle strength. Try gentle exercises like swimming, walking, or stretching. Yoga and Tai Chi can also be excellent options for maintaining flexibility and strength.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Extra weight can put additional stress on joints, especially weight-bearing ones like the hips and knees. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the load on your joints and help ease pain.
Use Pain Management Techniques: Over-the-counter pain relievers, topical ointments, or even prescribed medications may help alleviate arthritis pain. Always consult your healthcare provider before using any new treatments.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your arthritis symptoms become significantly worse in cold weather or if you experience new symptoms such as swelling, redness, or increased pain that does not improve with self-care measures, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional. They can provide a more tailored treatment plan to help manage your symptoms.

Conclusion

Does your arthritis dislike the cold? It might seem that way, but in reality, cold weather can trigger various factors that exacerbate arthritis pain, such as reduced blood flow, changes in barometric pressure, and reduced physical activity. While you cannot change the weather, there are many strategies you can use to stay comfortable and manage your symptoms. Remember, everyone’s experience with arthritis is different, so it’s important to find what works best for you.

Stay warm, stay active, and do not hesitate to seek professional advice to help you weather the winter months with greater ease. If you are searching for more ways to manage your arthritis this winter or at any time, consider physical therapy. They can help you strengthen your joints, reduce inflammation, and overall reduce pain.

References

1. MD RHS. Can the weather really worsen arthritis pain? Harvard Health. Published November 20, 2015. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/can-the-weather-really-worsen-arthritis-pain-201511208661
2. How Changes in Weather Affect Joint Pain. Published January 15, 2023.https://health.clevelandclinic.org/ barometric-pressure-joint-pain
3. Aikman H. The association between arthritis and the weather. Int J Biometeorol. 1997;40(4):192-199.doi:10.1007/ s004840050041
4. Best Climate for Arthritis Patients: Humidity’s Impact on your Joints. Arthritis Foundation. https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/managing-pain/understanding-pain/best-climate-for-arthritis#
5. Zhao, D., Cheng, J., Bao, P. et al. Effect of ambient temperature on outpatient admission for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in a subtropical Chinese city. BMC Public Health 22, 172 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1186 /s12889-021-11994-0