Arthritis and Winter

Winter is a time for holiday cheer as we wind down for the year. However, if you have arthritis, you know it can also be challenging. The colder months can have us stiff and aching, making it harder to keep moving and stay comfortable. But why does this happen? And more importantly, what can you do to manage it? This article will break down why arthritis symptoms often feel worse when it’s chilly out and offer practical tips to help you stay active and ease joint pain to make the most of the winter season!

Arthritis & Winter: Why Does The Cold Hurt?!

Many people with arthritis report an increase in joint pain as temperatures drop. A study in the Journal of Rheumatology shows that around 75% of people with arthritis report worsened symptoms during cold and rainy weather. This isn’t just a myth—there’s science behind it!

Colder temperatures can make the fluid around our joints thicker, which means that our joints struggle to move smoothly. This can lead to stiff, achy joints, especially in the morning or after a long nap on the couch. Additionally, when it’s cold, our muscles tend to tense up to keep us warm, which can put more stress on already sensitive joints.

Another factor that can influence joint pain is barometric pressure. When air pressure drops before cold or stormy weather, it can cause tissues around the joints to expand, adding to the stiffness and discomfort. While everyone can feel a bit achy during damp, cold weather, arthritis symptoms really start to act up!

Arthritis & Winter: Practical Tips To Brave The Cold

The good news? There are plenty of simple ways to manage arthritis pain in the winter. Here are some tips that can help you stay warm, keep moving, and reduce discomfort.

1. Stay Warm

Keeping your body, especially your joints, warm is key to managing arthritis pain during winter. Layer up when you head outside, and invest in thermal gloves or socks if your hands and feet are particularly affected by the cold. Heating pads or warm baths are going to be your best friend for soothing stiff joints. Applying heat improves circulation, which can give you massive relief. You might also consider using an electric blanket or keeping hand warmers in your pockets for extra relief on particularly cold days.

2. Stay Active

It can be tempting to curl up on the couch when it’s cold out, but exercise can make all the difference for your arthritis symptoms. Regular movement, even if it’s gentle, helps keep joints flexible and reduces stiffness. Indoors, try stretching or practicing yoga, which is easy on the joints and encourages flexibility. If you have a favorite indoor workout, like light aerobics or stationary cycling, keep it in your winter routine. Movement not only reduces stiffness but also keeps you feeling stronger and more energized.

3. Hydrate

When it’s cold, we’re less likely to feel thirsty, but hydration is just as important in winter as it is in summer. Staying well-hydrated supports joint health by keeping the joints lubricated. So keep those water bottles filled throughout the day! Warm teas or broths can be a comforting and hydrating way to stay on top of your fluid intake when you don’t feel like drinking cold water.

4. Anti-Inflammatory Foods

We become what we eat, and when we eat foods that cause inflammation, it is no surprise that our joints become inflamed. But, when we eat anti-inflammatory foods, our joints are relieved. Eating foods with plenty of omega-3 fatty acids, like fatty fish, chia seeds, and flaxseeds, helps bring inflammation down several notches. Along with this, adding a bit of turmeric to your soups or sipping green tea or ginger tea can warm you up and also help support your joint health.

5. Topical Solutions

For those awful joint pains in one spot that don’t seem to go away, an easy and effective way to manage pain is to apply pain relief gels directly on the angered joints. The Rapid Pain Relief Gel from three60 is a great, clinically-tested option, designed to provide quick, soothing relief for joint pain and inflammation. Another trick to try is oils like lavender, eucalyptus, and peppermint, especially when massaged into the affected joints. These topical treatments can give you fast, temporary relief, making them a must-have in your arthritis management kit!

6. Supportive Supplements

Even after incorporating all the previous steps, we may need a little extra support. That’s when supportive supplements can be a game changer. Supplements like omega-3 fatty acids help support joint health by reducing the leading cause of pain – inflammation, and increasing your mobility. The Daily Joint Care & Protect from three60 is specifically formulated to keep joints strong and flexible with a blend of ingredients like collagen, calcium fructoborate, and Hadjod. By incorporating these types of supplements, you can help protect your joints and enjoy a more comfortable, active winter season.

Arthritis & Winter: When to Consult The Professionals

Arthritis relief often requires a well-rounded management plan, including scientifically-backed products to help manage inflammation and pain. Always trust your instincts and carefully check for products with proven anti-inflammatory ingredients, like curcumin (found in turmeric) and omega-3s. If you are ever unsure about the right supportive measures for you, consider consulting with a healthcare professional to find the best products for your needs that align with your overall health plan for a healthy, fulfilled life.

Conclusion: Enjoying Winter Despite Arthritis

Winter weather doesn’t have to spell discomfort for you if you take active steps to manage your arthritis symptoms. By staying warm, keeping active, and incorporating joint-friendly foods and supplements, you can reduce joint pain and spend the colder months doing the things you enjoy with the people you love. Remember, arthritis management is about consistency; even small daily habits can have a big impact over time. So layer up, keep moving, and take control of your joint health this winter and make the most of the season!

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