A look at what Arthritis is, the common types, how the weather impacts it and exercises to try at home.
What is it?
Arthritis is a common condition affecting millions of people worldwide. It is inflammation from wear and tear of the joints causing stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility. Although arthritis is commonly associated with ageing, it can affect people of all ages.
Arthritis is a broad term encompassing many conditions affecting the joint, but the two most common forms include osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Osteoarthritis commonly known as “wear and tear” develops when the cartilage wears down over time causing the bones to rub together.
Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disease meaning the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues such as the lining of the joints.
How Changing Weather Affects Arthritis
Many people living with arthritis finds the change in weather can trigger increased stiffness and joint pain. In this blog we’ll explore the different weather patterns, how they affect arthritis, and what you can do to manage it.
Inflammation of the joints caused by arthritis may be worsened by temperature fluctuations or shifts in air pressure.
Temperature, Barometric Pressure and Rain
Changes in barometric pressure may make your tendons, muscles, and any scar tissue expand and contract, and that can create pain in joints affected by arthritis. During times of rain and snow, the temperature drops and barometric pressure decreases. This can cause fluid in the joints to thicken, which makes them stiffer. If you have stiff joints, you may be more sensitive to pain during movement, making arthritis pain worse.
Humidity
Humidity causes us to perspire more and lose more water. The decrease in our body’s water volume can cause inflammation leading to irritation of the joints.
Tips and Tricks to Manage Weather-Related Arthritis Pain
- Keeping warm – wear a base layer consisting of nylon or polyester, the second layer should provide warmth, keep your socks loose so your shoes don’t fit too tightly, having space for warm air will help insulate the feet. Wear a wool or fleece wind blocking beanie, and lastly block the elements, wear a jacket specific for the weather conditions.
- Keeping Active – While it’s common to feel less motivated in colder weather, one of the best things you can do is exercise. Exercise reduces pain levels, increases energy levels, and improves blood flow to our muscles.
- Prioritise Healthy Eating and Hydration – It’s normal to want comfort food when the weather is chilly. The joy of spending time with loved ones during the holidays may tempt us to overindulge in unhealthy foods. It’s important to be aware of this to keep a balanced diet and stay hydrated. Consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables helps to stay hydrated and increases the intake of vital nutrients that support our general health and wellness. Each one of these helps us keep our weight in balance and reduces the strain and stress on our bones.
Some Easy Exercises to Try
- Ankle Circles
- Clamshell and Resisted Clamshell
- Sit to Stand Exercises
- Knee to Chest Stretch
- Straight Leg Raises
- Step Ups
- Glute Bridge
- Bicep Curls
- Arm Circles
- Wrist Circles
In conclusion, weather-related arthritis pain is a common concern for many individuals with factors like temperature, barometric pressure, and humidity. Understanding your body’s response to weather changes can help you manage your symptoms more effectively. Incorporating strategies such as dressing warm, staying active, and eating well can provide relief during the colder seasons. By staying informed and being proactive, you can minimise the impact of weather on your arthritis and maintain a better quality of life year-round.
