Dealing with arthritis in cold weather


Like it or not, the cold weather is here. For many of us, the frigid temperatures mean stiff and achy bones. Unfortunately, for many arthritis sufferers, the pain seems to increase when temperatures or barometric pressures drop.

Although there isn’t much research on the topic, doctors who treat arthritis patients generally agree that many patients experience a worsening of joint symptoms on cold, rainy days and less arthritis pain on warm, dry days.

“It’s important to note that it’s only the symptoms of arthritis that are sometimes influenced by the weather,” says Gasan Nemr, M.D., of Lakewood Hospital.

“While there may be increased pain, there’s no evidence that weather changes lead to joint damage.”

If you are one of the many arthritis sufferers whose pain symptoms are influenced by the weather, take heart. Here are some tips to help you get through the winter season:

• Wear multiple layers of clothing to protect body tissues and to minimize rapid temperature changes between indoors and outdoors. 

• Keep exercising. Cold weather tends to promote inactivity, which also causes joints to stiffen. Try walking at the local mall or other low-impact activities such as swimming or dancing. Five to 10 minutes of gentle stretching exercises every morning will help relax stiff muscles.
   

• Get plenty of sleep. Sleep restores your energy so that you can better manage pain. It also rests your joints to reduce pain and swelling.
   

• Eat a healthy, balanced diet to boost your immune system, promote healing and fight off arthritis. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, fish, unsalted nuts and seeds, and grains.  

• Avoid caffeine, alcohol and nicotine, as these have a drying effect on cartilage.
   

• Take advantage of warm baths and heating pads to ease pain. Ice packs reduce inflammation and swelling. Alternate between heat and ice to get the benefits of both.
   

• Indulge yourself. A therapeutic massage can reduce your symptoms and improve your mood. A paraffin wax treatment brings warmth and softens your hands. Listening to your favorite music helps reduce pain and depression.
   

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, juice and other liquids. Water is a good replacement therapy and helps flush out toxins that can cause pain in arthritic joints.
   

• Keep a pain diary. Write about your level of pain at different times, how you're feeling, and what activities you can and cannot do. Keep a record of medications and diet. Bring the diary to your doctor visits.
   

• Ask your doctor about arthritis supplements that can prevent nutrient deficiencies leading to arthritis pain.

“Build your life around wellness instead of pain,” says Dr. Nemr. “Think positive thoughts, have a sense of humor, eat a balanced diet, get plenty of rest, exercise, enjoy doing things with family and friends, and surround yourself with positive people.

“Your body will tell you when need to slow down.”

Dr. Nemr specializes in Internal Medicine and practices at Lakewood Hospital. To schedule an appointment with him or other Lakewood physicians, please call Medline, a toll-free physician referral service, at 1.866.733.6363.