Joint pain in winter

By Symetrix 02 March 2022

AS TEMPERATURES DROP, COMPLAINTS OF JOINT PAIN INCREASE

Many people experience joint pain associated with the change in climate especially due to the low temperatures in winter.
There are numerous pathological changes that can affect health and cause joint inflammation, stiffness and joint pain.
Being aware, "listening to the body", treating it with due respect before an acute situation becomes chronic is important.
Obviously we may suffer discomfort or pain in any joint in winter, in response to various serious or less serious situations we may have in the body, however the incidence often affects ankles, knees, hips and spine.
Many people continue to participate in outdoor activities in winter, running, cycling, swimming, mountain walking, however as in all situations we must assess the benefits and risks associated with our choices when exposing ourselves to the elements.
A healthy body requires being in motion, staying active all year round, however it is equally important to prevent possible risks associated with some situations related with the environment.

Some factors can condition and increase joint pain in winter, the decrease in atmospheric pressure characteristic of winter interferes with the joints, it allows the joints to expand a little more, resulting in pain from the tissues around the joints. This expansion contributes to irritation of structures and consequently the nerve endings causing joint pain.

Cold weather interferes with the elastic properties of muscles, causing greater muscle stiffness, making movement more difficult for some.

Synovial fluid, a lubricating element for the mobile joint structures of the locomotor system, such as the feet, knees, hips, hands and shoulders, allows the functionality and smooth and painless movement of the joints, facilitating the friction between bones.

In some situations and in cold weather this intra-articular fluid increases its viscosity, resulting in decreased lubrication causing pain when moving the joints.
Cold weather conditions, absence of the sun, more shade tend to have a negative impact on one's mood and psychological well-being and can cause pain tolerance levels to decrease.

Some choose to stay indoors, reduce movement, of course individuals with pre-existing pathological joint conditions, pain tends to worsen by the simple absence of locomotive movement, an essential factor for healthy joint life.

Regular Exercise

Start gradually and do a pre-warm-up for about 5 minutes, include active stretching as this increases circulation and reduces muscle stiffness.
Exercise regularly with the guidance of an exercise and health professional.
*5 times a week is ideal - 30 minutes minimum daily.

If running or walking outdoors wear compression gloves in case of cooler temperatures, compression gloves relieve joint pain in the hands for those with arthritis.

Avoid excessive strain on joints

For those suffering from osteoarthritis avoid static standing or sitting positions.

Clothing

Wear several layers of clothing that are not too tight, to allow good circulation.
Several layers of clothing create air pockets that protect against colder temperatures.

Use manual therapies such as osteopathy, massage and reflexology

The use of manual therapies can stimulate blood circulation, reduce tissue retraction and regulate the mechanical muscle tension associated with good osteoarticular function.
The use of the multiple therapies is a way to improve the overall health of the muscular and articular tissues.

New technologies can help, especially radiofrequency

For instance it contributes to cellular regeneration, increases the oxygenation and hydration of the tissues, an important factor because in winter the feeling of thirst is reduced, increasing the risk of dehydration. Therapy with the Indiba machine - available in Symetrix improves muscle tone and adipocyte lipolysis (stored fats) this mechanism contributes to slimming and cellulite loss by burning stored fats, and consequently the pressure on joints.