As colder weather approaches, that dull ache in our joints becomes more unbearable. Colder weather seems to make everything hurt worse, and while changes in weather are not predictive of major disorders such as arthritis, it can indeed make us more uncomfortable.
As We Age
It is true that as we age we do experience a wearing down of basic joints, particularly the knees, due to overuse or previous injuries incurred during our lifetime. Former and current athletes are more likely to develop arthritic conditions due to overuse, but they are not alone in feeling that morning stiffness during winter. When the barometric pressure fluctuates, people seem to notice an increase in pain and stiffness; and while there is no conclusive evidence that the two are indeed connected, arthritis sufferer will attest to the notion that weather does impact joint pain, as do damp, brisk days.
Some experts believe that the brisk weather of winter can thicken the joint fluid, causing joints to become less mobile and flexible. This can lead to stiffness in the joints. Despite the lack of scientific evidence, winter is a bone-chilling time of year, which may be one of the biggest causes for joint pain, as is damper conditions.
What Can You Do?
Whether you subscribe to the idea that joint pain is directly associated with weather changes or not, there is no denying that you are in pain, and if so, you want relief, despite the time of year. Many old remedies abound, like applying household and automotive lubricants directly to the affected areas, but these are just myths. First and foremost, eat a balanced diet and one that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids to help alleviate the inflammation. You might want to include Vitamin C and Vitamin K, as both also help alleviate pain and inflammation in the body. Your mother was right: you need to eat your greens!
You can also add supplements to your diet to help combat degeneration in the joints. Glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin, while not scientifically proven, are widely believed to help nourish and maintain joint health. There are many vitamins that now contain these two elements, so you can supplement your healthy diet with one tablet. Vitamins and supplements should be taken in addition to a healthy diet, not in lieu of, so do include healthier foods like salmon, vegetables and fruits to your daily meals.
Your physician may include a small over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs, like ibuprofen, as a daily treatment, but do not prescribe this for yourself. There are long term health problems associated with anti-inflammatory use, and this course of treatment should only be prescribed by a physician. Before beginning any new supplemental treatment, always consult your physician first. Sometimes even the best intended remedies can do more harm than good. Joint pain is not something to ignore and an orthopaedic specialist can help determine where the problem lies and how to best treat it.
Kitchi Joyce is the Director of Administrative Services for OrthoAtlanta, a full service Atlanta orthopedic practice specializing in orthopaedic surgery and sports medicine. OrthoAtlanta has multiple locations around the Atlanta Metro area where doctors, physicians and medical staff help patients live and perform at the peak of their physical ability. Decades of experience, education and research means that all branches of Atlanta orthopedics are covered, from cartilage restoration to spine care and sports medicine. Learn more about Atlanta orthopedics at http://www.orthoatlanta.com/services/orthopaedic/.
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