How does Cold Weather affect Joint Pain

As the atmospheric pressure drops, our joints expand, putting pressure on the surrounding nerves. This increase in pressure leads to joint pain. Colder temperatures also cause expansion and contraction of the surrounding tissue, ligaments, tendons and cartilage, increasing the stiffness and pain in the joints.

When it gets colder, blood circulation tends to slow down, especially around our limbs and extremities. With the decrease in circulation, nerve endings get more sensitive and joint pain increases.

A fluid called ‘synovial fluid’ is present around our joints to reduce friction as we move. This fluid thickens as it gets colder, causing stiff joints. The stiffer your joints are the more likely it is that you will experience joint pain.

As the days get shorter and temperatures drop, we tend to stay home more as compared to warmer months. The lack of activity can worsen joint pain in people with chronic joint pain or arthritis.

Wear warm clothes when you go outside, especially if you’re going for a walk or jogging. As long as your body temperature stays warm, you will be protected against unnecessary joint pain in winter.

We all tend to feel lazier on sleepy winter days, but staying active is important if you want to avoid joint pain. If you don’t follow an exercise regime already, plan one out for yourself and follow it consistently.

Consider staying in on colder days and doing an at-home exercise regime. If you usually go for early morning runs, try switching to evening runs when it’s comparatively warmer outside.

Don’t miss out on warm-ups before you exercise. Spend at least 5 minutes doing stretches to loosen your joints up and remove stiffness. Then carry on with your regular exercise routine.

Don’t end your exercise routine or your runs abruptly. If you’re running, slow down to a jog and then a walk before you stop. If you’re exercising, do some cool-down stretches to ensure that your muscles don’t tighten up.

Don’t skip out on your meals and avoid extra-sugary or processed food as it causes inflammation. Drink plenty of water, keeping yourself hydrated improves your flexibility.

If knee pain in winter is a concern for you then wearing a knee brace is an easy way to provide stability and support to your joints. It also offers compression and relieves pain. Wear it while you exercise or when you go for a run.