28 Nov Pain and the Weather–and How to Feel Better
Lots of people swear that cold, rainy days seem to bring out their aches and pains. Although studies on links between weather and joint pain have mixed results, patient surveys often reveal an association. We provide holistic treatments at Eastern Oklahoma Chiropractic that offer whole-body benefits to keep joints working smoothly, rain or shine.
How Weather May Affect Your Joints
Barometric pressure changes appear to be the most common factor in weather-related joint pain.
Barometric pressure measures the weight of the air pressing on the earth. This pressure falls as the weather gets worse. Changing pressure may cause muscles and tendons around joints to expand or contract. Chronic conditions that cause cartilage to wear down, like arthritis, can make nerves around bones more sensitive to pressure changes.
Migraines and other types of headaches may also be affected by weather changes.
People most often report that humid and cold weather aggravates their symptoms. Cold temperatures can cause fluid in joints and muscles to thicken, leading to pain.
Although most patients feel worse when the barometric pressure drops, some link their increased pain to rising pressure. Changing pressure seems to be the key factor, especially when it happens quickly.
Other possible weather effects include:
- Being less active during bad weather restricts movement, which increases pain.
- Feeling psychologically down on damp, rainy days, which can lower your pain threshold.
Keeping Your Joints Healthy at Home
Chiropractors are specially trained to advise you about lifestyle practices for good joint health. Here are a few suggestions to minimize pain flareups:
Stay warm when the weather is cold. Keep your house warm and wear layers outdoors. Don’t forget good-quality gloves to protect your hand joints.
Warm up and stretch muscles before exercising outdoors in cold weather.
Stay active to promote good mobility. Movement is vital for keeping your musculoskeletal system healthy.
Work on your flexibility with regular stretching and activities like yoga.
Include weight training in your workout routine for better joint support.
Get 7-8 hours of sleep at night. Studies show how crucial sleep is for repairing and maintaining our overall health. Make sure your bedroom and sleep habits are set for sleep success.
Achieve a healthy weight to prevent wear and tear on your weight-bearing joints.
Eat a healthy diet. Cut back on processed foods that can increase inflammation.
Prioritize good mental health. Stay active and get help for anxiety and depression. The mind-body connection has a powerful effect on your response to pain.
Chiropractic Care to Relieve Joint Pain
A strong, well-balanced musculoskeletal system helps reduce inflammation and minimize pain without medications and their side effects. Chiropractic adjustments align your spine, improving your movement, circulation, and joint function.
Chiropractors also provide massage and other soft tissue therapies to relax muscles around joints. We can provide guidance on joint-healthy nutrition and help you with exercises that improve your flexibility, strength and range of motion.
Whether or not you have joint problems now, chiropractic care will keep your joints in the best shape they can be–ready to face any future rainy days.
We Offer a Complimentary Consultation at Eastern Oklahoma Chiropractic
Begin maximizing your health potential by calling our Broken Arrow office at 918-940-4630.