Joints are the contacts between two bones. We can feel joint pain in any part of the body. The reasons for feeling joint pain are arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, bursitis, etc. And in the winter season, the pain becomes worst.
There is no specific reason behind increasing discomfort and the association of cold temperature. However, the theory says barometric pressure is responsible for rising joint pain. When barometric pressure drops, air pressure on our body also drops. And this may swell tendons, muscles, and joints that cause pain.
Causes of Joint Pain:
Several reasons lead to joint pain. The reasons are as follows:
- Arthritis: Arthritis is a familiar cause of joint pain. Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis are most common than other arthritis.
- Osteoarthritis: When flexible tissues (cartilages) around the bones wear down, it is called osteoarthritis. It damages any joints.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic condition felt in the fingers and wrists. It causes swelling and pain in the joints.
- Bursitis: We have fluid sacs around our joints to support it. Due to overuse, these sacs inflamed and aroused pain. It occurs in the hip, knee, elbow, and shoulder joint.
- Gout: It is a painful condition where crystals of our body collect in joint. It results in swelling in joints.
- Tendinitis: Tendons attach muscles with bones. Tendinitis is the inflammation of the tendons. We feel it in the elbow, heel, or shoulder.
Winter and Lifestyle Changes increase pain:
Lifestyle changes in the winter also play a crucial role in increasing joint pain. In the winter, slanted sunlight, less outdoor movement, and less exercise stiff your joints.
While staying indoors, we lack Vitamin D. And lack of Vitamin D in winters increases your pain.
Tips to get rid of Joint Pain in the winter:
- You may apply a heating pad around the pain area. Heat may help relax your pain.
- Activity and stretching are the best home remedies of all. Stretch before you go outdoors. So, it will help to loosen stiff joints. And activity will warm up your body that help keep your muscle and joints healthy.
- By maintaining a healthy weight, you can reduce the pressure on your joints like the knee and spinal cord.
- Must avoid unnecessary strain during daily activities.
- Wear layers of warm clothes like gloves, scarves, mufflers, and socks if you already have joint pain. It will reduce the chance of cold shock in the winters.
- Sleep health is salient. Getting a good night’s sleep will reduce fatigue and inflammations.
- Intake a healthy diet full of nutritious food. Vitamin D, Omega 3, and other essential nutrients help reduce stiffness in joints.
- Take a warm bath. It will improve blood circulation in the cold temperature and loosen muscles.
When should I visit a doctor?
Visit a doctor when you feel new symptoms like swelling, redness, difficulty moving the joint area. You must consult an expert if you are in severe pain and the pain is disabling you.
Summary:
If you already have joint pain, the winter will make it worst. On the other hand, cold temperature makes muscles and joints stiff for everyone. So it is better to stay active and eat healthy food to live life easily even in less sunlight.
