Many
people who suffer from Arthritis dread the coming of winter. This is not merely
an unreasonable phobia, there exists research which says that pain perception
is adversely affected by changes in weather, especially, temperature, humidity
and atmospheric pressure. While more study is required, this finding fits in
perfectly with the spike in complaints regarding joint pain that doctors face
from their Arthritis patients during winter or monsoon.
Although
you can do nothing about the chilly weather, you can take precautions which
will help you reduce the sensation of pain brought about by seasonal changes.
These tips will not solve the underlying problem of Arthritis, but they can
certainly make life less unpleasant and transform the winter season into a time
of joy.
Combating Arthritis pain in
winter
1. Wear warm clothes: As it is chilly
outside, you need to wear adequate warm clothes. Take care to cover affected
joints like the knees or the hands so
that they are least exposed to the cold weather. Since Arthritis usually
affects the elderly, you should make sure that they are properly clothed most
of the time. If necessary, convince them to wear layers of warm clothes which
can keep them shielded from shifts in temperature.
2. Drink plenty of water: In the experience of
some doctors, people who drink enough water throughout the day tend to have
less experience of pain. Perhaps, mild dehydration might make some people more
sensitive to pain. So remember to drink at least 8 glasses of water everyday.
3. Exercise regularly: This will help control
your weight and improve the flexibility and strength of your bones and muscles.
This will add much needed strength to your joints. Just 30 minutes of moderate
intensity exercise 4 times a week is enough to maintain joint health and bring
down the risk of joint pain.
4. Be active in the house: While you may feel
like avoiding any work in the chilly weather, this is actually a bad idea.
Doctors and physiotherapists around the world ask Arthritis patients to try and
stay active as much as possible. Since the weather outside may not suit you,
try to stay active in the house. Doing household chores like cooking or doing
the laundry is a great way of staying active in spite of the inclement weather.
5. Apply hot pack: If you feel that the
pain is getting unbearable, then apply a hot pack on the affected area. The warmth will improve blood circulation in
and around the joint while temporarily reducing pain sensation.
6. Lose weight: Even a reduction of a
couple of kilograms can help reduce the stress on the affected joints
(especially the knees) which will in turn reduce the sensation of pain. Losing
just 5 kilograms will help reinvigorate your body and make it easier to perform
daily tasks.
7. Don’t ignore good food: Make sure you get
plenty of calcium and vitamin D-rich foods on a daily basis. Both of these
nutrients are vital for maintaining bone strength. So eat dairy products like
milk or yogurt everyday.
By
Dr. Shabtab Khalid
Note:
Through the synergistic combination of Classical Homoeopathy, Ayurvedic-Unani Formulations and Internationally Acclaimed Advanced Physiotherapy, Zilaxo
Advanced Pain Solution aims to eradicate joint pain, counter the process of
degeneration and promote bone health. The protocol is at once scientific,
effective as well as safe. To avail treatment at Zilaxo, call on 1800 419 6607
(Toll free) or WhatsApp at +91 98304 26607.
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