Winter and Arthritis: Tips for Managing Joint Pain in Cold Weather

Oct 08, 2024 Joint and Muscle Pain

Have you noticed your joints feeling more achy and stiff lately? Don’t worry, it’s not just you. Scientific evidence shows that joint pain worsens during the winter months.

This World Arthritis Day, we discuss the impacts of cold weather on arthritis and share our top tips for easing joint pain.

 

What is Arthritis? 

Arthritis is a chronic condition that leads to pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the joints. The two main types of arthritis are:

• Osteoarthritis: Affecting an estimated 10 million people in the UK, osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition where joint cartilage breaks down over time.

• Rheumatoid arthritis: This autoimmune disease impacts about 700,000 people in the UK, causing the body’s immune system to attack its own joints, leading to pain and swelling.

If you’re experiencing persistent joint pain, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have arthritis. Always consult with your GP for a proper diagnosis.

 

How Does Cold Weather Worsen Joint Pain?

Many people with arthritis find their symptoms flare up during winter, and there are a few reasons why:

• Air Pressure: Cold weather increases air pressure, causing tissues to expand. This added pressure on the joints can lead to discomfort.

• Vasoconstriction: In response to the cold, blood vessels around the joints constrict to preserve heat, limiting flexibility and increasing pain.

• Thicker Joint Fluid: Colder temperatures cause joint fluid to thicken, making movement more difficult and increasing stiffness.

 

Top Tips for Managing Joint Pain in Winter

To relieve joint pain this winter, try incorporating these into your routine:

• Dress Warmly: Layer up with coats, gloves, and thermal wear to keep your joints warm, reducing stiffness and discomfort.

• Stay Active: Regular exercise improves muscle strength and joint flexibility. Take walks, stretch, or try a low-impact home workout to keep mobile.

• Heat Therapy: Use hot water bottles or heating pads like Deep Heat Patches to warm up painful areas. This promotes blood flow and eases stiffness in your joints.

• Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation. Maintaining a healthy weight also reduces pressure on your joints.

• Vitamin D Supplements: With less sunlight during winter, many people experience a drop in vitamin D levels. Consider adding a vitamin D supplement to support bone health and potentially reduce arthritis pain.

 

Treatments for Arthritis 

While there is no cure for arthritis, several treatments can help manage symptoms:

• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Commonly used for osteoarthritis, NSAIDs like ibuprofen can reduce pain and inflammation.

• General Analgesics: Medications like paracetamol offer temporary relief from joint pain and stiffness.

• Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs): These medications are specifically for those with rheumatoid arthritis, helping to slow the progression of the disease.

 

At Simply Meds Online, we offer a range of over-the-counter pain relief options and expert guidance to help manage your arthritis symptoms. With same-day and next-day delivery options, easily manage your medications with our hassle-free service.