Why Does Joint Pain Increase In Winter & How To Combat It?

The falling temperatures bring with them a rise in pain-related issues, especially joint and nerve pain. But why exactly does pain increase in winter?

This blog will answer that question, and more importantly, provide you with the tools to beat joint pain this winter!

Many people who suffer from pain disorders like Arthritis, Neuralgia, etc. dread the onset 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.

Let’s take a look at underlying causes of winter pain flare-ups.

Ø  The sensitivity of pain receptors increases in low temperatures.
Ø  A decrease in pressure during winter causes tissue swelling, building tension between joints and triggering pain.
Ø  Lower Vitamin D levels in winter mean weakened bones & joints; hence, more susceptible to pain and inflammation.
Ø  Cold atmosphere means inadequate blood circulation in the farther joints like fingers, wrists, toes, heels and ankles- leaving them prone to flare-ups.
Ø  As the number of spasms increases proportionally with the cold, it worsens joint pain and stiffness.

Although you can do nothing about the chilly weather, taking proper precautions can help reduce the sensation of pain significantly. Transform the winter season into a time of joy!

Essentials to combat pain in winter

1. Sunbathing is a Boon for Your Bones: Exposure to sunlight, especially in the early morning, provides your joints and muscles with much-needed warmth in winter. Sunlight is also a rich source of vitamin D, which nourishes the bones by helping the body metabolise Calcium.

2. Take Hot Showers: Start your day by enjoying a hot shower. It will relax tensed muscles & joints, as well as bring down inflammation and pain sensation. Hot showers also stimulate the release of endorphins (happy hormones), which greatly helps in managing pain-related disorders better.

3. Apply Hot Pack: If feel the pain rising, don't hesitate to apply a hot pack on the affected area. The warmth will improve blood circulation in and around the joint while reducing pain and stiffness.

4. Wear Warm Clothes: As it is cold 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 such conditions usually affect 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.

5. Be Active in the House: Staying physically active in winter will not only help to cut down on excess weight but also improve the flexibility & strength of your bones and muscles. Losing weight means less strain on your weight-bearing joints & better pain management while stronger bones translate into a lower risk of sprains. Since the weather outside may not allow you to go for a walk, doing household chores like cooking or taking care of the laundry are great exercises by themselves. Indulging in 30 minutes of physical activity 5 days a week is highly recommended!

6. Drink Plenty of Water: Almost all of us tend to drink less water in winters. However, keeping yourself hydrated works as a dual positive. Firstly, it reduces the sensation of pain by managing our body's internal response. Secondly, it stimulates the production of synovial fluid, which is responsible for lubricating the cartilage; thereby reducing inflammation around the joint and encouraging the growth of new cells in the cartilage tissues.

7. Nourish Your Joints: Make sure you get plenty of calcium and vitamin D-rich foods daily. Both of these nutrients are vital for maintaining bone strength. So, eat dairy products like milk or yoghurt every day.

                             STOP SUFFERING, START LIVING!!

Note: Through the synergistic combination of Classical Homoeopathy, Ayurvedic-Unani Formulations and Internationally Acclaimed Advanced Physiotherapy- Zilaxo Advanced Healing Destination 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.