Winter is the season for increased joint pain for those with arthritis. While the exact science behind cold-related joint pain is still ongoing, there is no doubt symptoms can worsen during the cooler winter months.
According to Karen Donahue, who is currently studying to become a registered nurse, “The consistent cooler temperatures during the winter months can cause the ligaments, muscles and joints to stiffen. With these areas of the body stiff, movement without proper care can cause pain and inflammation.” Ms. Donahue continued, “No matter where you live in the United States, arthritis sufferers do feel the difference between 80-degree warm summer days and the frigid overnight temperatures of winter.”
Check out these 7 ways to avoid winter joint pain. - Article continues under the video.
1: Understand the Pain is Real
According to published research from Tufts University changes in the weather can actually cause pain. For example, colder temperatures can actually increase the thickness in joint fluid, thus causing extreme pain. One likely reason is the synovial lining, this is the lining between the joints that is responsible for the production and maintaining of joint fluid. This fluid reacts to changes in temperature.
In addition, a Dutch study published in 2018 showed evidence those suffering from hip arthritis experienced pain during the change of the seasons including changes in humidity and barometric pressure.
Here are some suggestions to help:
Make sure to stay consistently warm. Enjoy long warm bathes, wear several layers of clothing and try to keep a pair of gloves with you.
2: Eat Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Certain foods help to reduce inflammation in the body fast. Did you know a number of foods offer condition-specific remedies including reducing joint pain? Check out these anti-inflammatory foods you can add to your diet to stop joint pain fast.
- Tart Cherries:
Since the first research paper was published in the 1950’s tart cherries have been the first choice for arthritis and joint pain sufferers. This reason is simple, it works! This tiny fruit is packed full of powerful anti-inflammatory compounds including anthocyanins.
According published research from Michigan State University, tart cherries offer 10 times the pain relieving properties of over-the-counter options including aspirin. Since fresh tart cherries are only available during the summer harvest months, countless arthritis sufferers enjoy drinking tart Tart Cherry Juice or taking Tart Cherry Capsules to stop winter-related arthritis and joint pain.
Check out these different ways to enjoy the pain relieving properties of the Tart Cherry:
- Tart Cherry Juice
- Tart Cherry Capsules
- No Sugar Added Dried Tart CherriesGarlic and Turmeric:
- Garlic
Garlic is not only great to fight off vampires, but also joint pain. It offers anti-inflammatory benefits as well as great taste to almost any recipe.
- Turmeric
If you're not worried about vampires, another natural anti-inflammatory option is turmeric. Turmeric is the spice that gives great taste to curry. The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin. It is available in convenient turmeric supplements.
Here are some suggestions to help:
Enjoy a glass of tart cherry juice or take tart cherry capsules. Each offers the natural health benefits of this amazing ruby-red super fruit.
3: Stop the Stiffness by Stretching
During the winter time, your muscles and joints need extra attention. Stretching helps to increase your range of motion and flexibility. As we age, we naturally get stiffer. It is when you are stiff is when it can raise the chance for injury. Take time to stretch out your joints by keeping them active.
Here are some suggestions to help:
Take a few extra minutes before your get out of bed to gently stretch your muscles and joints. Sign up for a yoga or Tai Chi class. Make sure to consult with your doctor before you make any changes to your exercise or stretching routine.
4: Apply Some Heat
A heating pad can provide great comfort on a pain afflicted area. However, only apply heat for 10 to 20 minutes. Also, don’t leave the heating pad on while you sleep.
Here are some suggestions to help:
If you don’t have a heating bag, apply a warm towel to area of your body that hurts.
5: Apply Skin Cream, Lotions and Rubs
Apply over-the-counter creams or rub-on arthritis heating gels. The combination of soothing heat and the rubbing motion as you apply the cream to your body can help ease pain naturally.
Here are some suggestions to help:
While not all creams or rubs will always work, it is worth a try during the winter months.
6: Layer your Clothes
Dress for the cooler temperatures, especially if you venture out at night. The temperatures at night, during the winter months, can plunge 10 – 20 degrees below the daytime temperatures. Laying your clothes allows you to dress for every temperature of the day. Keeping muscles and ligaments warm are vital.
Here are some suggestions to help:
Keep extra gloves, hats, socks and blankets in your car.
7: Stay Positive and Look Toward Warmer Days
Remain positive and know there is light at the end of the tunnel. Unless you live in the North Pole, their will be warmer days and night within the next few months.
Here are some suggestions to help:
Take up a hobby to help pass the time until spring arrives. Download a FREE copy of the Breaking Free from Stress Course to help with the stress of the winter months.