Barometric Pressure & Joint Pain
Your grandfather may have told you he could predict a storm with his aching knees--and he was probably right. Science backs up the old wives' tales of joint pain increasing with changes in barometric pressure.
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Causes
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Changes in atmospheric pressure change the amount of fluid and pressure in joints. These changes are more noticeable in those with arthritis because they've lost their layer of cushioning cartilage.
Studies
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Researchers combined results from two independent studies, the Online Glucosamine Trial conducted from 2000 to 2002 and data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. This allowed them to compare reported joint pain with weather data without biasing the test population by telling them they were doing so.
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Considerations
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For those with arthritis, the time before a thunderstorm is especially painful. Any change in barometric pressure can increase pain, but dropping pressure is generally worse than rising pressure.
Immediate Relief
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You can relieve joint pain by applying heat or ice, whichever feels better. Massaging the area might help, as well as taking over-the-counter pain relieving creams.
Long-Term Treatment
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You can improve your joint pain over the long term with supplements such as Omega-3, glucosamine and chondroitin. Steroid shots or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can help. If nothing brings you relief, you might want to consider joint replacement.
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