As winter approaches, some people are looking forward to ice skating parties, ski trips, or taking the kids out for their first lesson in snowman crafting. Other people are unfortunately dreading the wet, frigid days and long, cold nights of aches and pains ahead.
Why the Cold Causes Joint Pain
For many people, the cold winter weather wreaks havoc on the joints. The chills sometimes feel like they penetrate down to the bone, making you feel stiff and slow. The nagging pain makes it hard to move and go about your daily business, or difficult to get a good night’s sleep.
Researchers still aren’t sure exactly why winter causes joint discomfort and stiffness, but the lower temperatures are part of the problem. The cold causes muscle tension, and it thickens fluids meant to lubricate the joints. This can lead to the stiffness and pain you experience. Barometric pressure and dry air may also contribute to the problem.
If you suffer from joint discomfort due to the cold, here are some tips to help you find relief and get through the winter months.
Don’t Slow Down
Your first instinct when you’re feeling stiff or your joints are hurting may be to curl up under a quilt, but you’ll feel better in the long run if you keep moving. Low-impact activities like walking, stretching, or weight training will keep the muscles and joints warmed up.
Maintain Your Weight
Humans are inclined to gain weight in the winter for many reasons, such as holiday treats, less activity, hormonal changes, and cravings for those heavy, rib-sticking comfort foods. Those extra pounds can put more strain on your joints, however. Eating a healthy, balanced diet throughout the winter will not only help prevent weight gain—it will also give you the nutrition and fuel you need.
Stay Hydrated
Most people know how important it is to stay hydrated in the summertime under the hot sun, but many people forget about staying hydrated in the winter. The dry winter air can quickly cause dehydration, making you feel listless and achy. Make sure you’re getting in your eight glasses of water. Alternatively, you may wish to replace some of them with a nice, warm herbal tea to help keep you nice and cozy.
Bundle Up
Proper winter gear will help keep you warm where it counts. If your hips get stiff, consider getting a long winter coat. If the pain is in your knees, think about wearing leg warmers or thermal leggings under your pants. Don’t leave the house without a scarf if you get neck pain, and always keep extra gloves around to protect those hands and wrists.
Stay Indoors
If your aches and pains get worse from being outside, try to limit activities to indoors. If it is possible, work remotely. Do your shopping online and have items delivered. Stock up on some fun indoor activities to keep you busy so you won’t get bored. Instead of a daily brisk walk around the neighborhood, get yourself a yoga mat or a stationary bike.
Comfort Yourself
If you find yourself dealing with stiff or achy joints even when taking precautions, there are a few ways you can try and comfort yourself to bring some relief. Use a heating pad, hot water bottle, or pain relief creams and ointments. Warm baths or soaks with Epsom salts can also be a nice daily ritual to bring some relief.
If you’re still struggling, talk to your doctor about what supplements might be best for you. Vitamin D, anti-inflammatory medication, or other supplements may help make things better.
Let Us Help
Joint damage, injuries, or misalignments of the spine can make joint pain more prevalent in winter months. Dr. Alex Bello of Los Angeles Upper Cervical can help make corrections to bring relief and put your body on the road to healing.
Dr. Bello is a specialist in the Blair Chiropractic Technique, a modern technique utilizing advanced technology to detect and calculate misalignments of the upper cervical spine. The doctor can then apply precise yet gentle pressure to help bring the spine back into proper alignment, relieving your joints of undue stress that causes pain and muscle stiffness.
If you’re looking for a natural, drug-free, non-invasive way to help manage your joint pain throughout the winter, call Dr. Bello for an appointment. He offers upper cervical chiropractic care to patients in Brentwood, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Westwood, Culver City, Marina Del Rey, West Los Angeles, and the surrounding areas.