If you’re a joint pain sufferer, you may have noticed that the onset of wintery, cold and wet weather can make joints ache more than usual – adding an extra burden on top of the miserable weather.
“People who suffer from arthritis may experience increased pain and stiffness during colder months” explains consultant rheumatologist Dr Rod Hughes; “this may be because low barometric pressure has a physical impact on the joints or that it encourages inflammation making joint movement more painful. In addition, during cold weather, the body focuses on circulating blood around the core and major organs and away from muscles and joints. As a result, the joints may seem less flexible.’’
If you’re dreading the winter months, why not try these four easy steps to help ease aches and pains and keep you feeling your best this winter, whatever the temperature.
Fit and well
Regular exercise is great for keeping joints healthy and supple, so don't let the cold weather turn you into a couch potato. Try low impact indoor exercises such as swimming, yoga or walking on a treadmill. Exercise not only loosens and lubricates stiff joints, but helps prevent winter weight gain that puts more stress on painful joints.
The heat is on
Stiff, tense, and sore muscles can be relaxed and relieved with a little heat, and joints are no different. Try a heat pack or a warm bath to help soothe stiff joints and relax the muscles around the joints. Use heat application for at least 15 minutes before exercise and then again immediately following exercise – as well as every time you need additional relief from nagging joint pain.
Supplement your diet
Alongside a healthy lifestyle, supplements can help to relieve symptoms. GOPO, with the natural anti-inflammatory compound derived from rose-hip, is very effective at reducing pain and improves joint mobility for both sufferers of arthritis and active healthy adults experiencing pain. Similarly, Joint-Care from Healthspan combines Optiflex Glucosamine with omega rich cod liver oil, to provide support for the areas of your body which need it most.
Lift your mood
Lower mood during the winter months can mean that your pain feels worse, as your perception of pain can change if you’re feeling more depressed. It’s important to carry on doing things throughout the winter months that you know give you a ‘lift’ usually, whether it’s spending plenty of time with friends, treating yourself, or carrying on favourite hobbies. Regular exercise is also helpful in boosting your mood and overall wellbeing. If you're struggling with low mood, you can also see your GP for further advice.
Visit GOPO for further advice on joint care this winter.
About the Author / Gareth Hargreaves
Gareth looks after all editorial content on 50connect. He is the Swiss Army knife of content ideas and production.
