Cold Weather Joint Pain
One in five Americans have been diagnosed with some type of arthritis, according to Marcelle Pick, OB/GYN nurse practitioner. Arthritis causes joint pain of the knees, wrist and ankles, and it is especially likely to flare up during cold weather.
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Circulation
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In cold weather, your body's circulation to your arms and legs decreases. This can cause inflammation of the joints.
Pain
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During cold weather, the body's pain receptors increase in sensitivity. This may mean that during a cold snap or a rainy spell, your body will react with sudden joint pain.
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Movement
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Stay active by walking. According to Healthy Living Magazine, even though it may be uncomfortable during the winter months, your body needs to stay active in order to keep your joints from stiffening up during cold weather.
Keep Warm
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Keep your body warm by dressing in layers. Wear heavy socks to protect your feet and ankles. Wear gloves to keep your wrists and fingertips warm. These measures will help to curb cold weather joint pain.
Ice
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Ice can help reduce swelling. Ice can help reduce the inflammation and swelling in joints. Healthy Living Magazine recommends leaving ice on a swollen area until it is slightly numb.
Weight
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Maintaining a normal body weight can reduce excess wear on joints and ligaments and prevent cold weather joint pain from occurring.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Jesslee Cuizon Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of traveling for about a month) (Jeremy Barwick
