With the recent downpours the area has been experiencing, you may have noticed that your joints seem to ache more when rain is in the forecast. It is not uncommon for people to complain of increased joint pain when there is rain or the weather is more cold than usual. Why is that? Although scientists have yet to come up with a definitive answer, there are a number of different theories as to why this occurs, as well as suggestions for how to prevent rainy day aches and pains.
Why Does Rain Bring Joint Pain?
One of the most frequently upheld theories is related to the influence of barometric (air) pressure on the body. When it rains, barometric pressure falls. Your body senses this decrease in pressure, which can cause soft tissue like muscles and tendons to expand and contract. This can lead to increased pressure on the joints, causing nerve irritation and subsequent joint pain. If the cartilage that protects the bone has degenerated or become worn down, like is common with arthritis, the bones may be more exposed and make the nerves more sensitive to changes in pressure. If the temperature is colder, this can further exacerbate symptoms, as lower temperatures can make the fluid within the joints thicker and contribute to a feeling of stiffness. Another consideration outside of the physiological realm is that on a rainy day, you are more likely to stay indoors. Although this keeps you dry, it can also keep you from moving as much as you normally would, and that inactivity can result in stiff and achy joints.
Is There Any Way to Prevent Weather-Related Joint Pain?
- Stretch before activity to allow the muscles to warm up and improve flexibility and joint range of motion
- Participate in low impact exercise (such as walking, cycling, and swimming) regularly to improve your heart health and strengthen your muscles to better support your joints
- If the weather is cold, keep yourself warm to reduce joint stiffness by adding layers, taking a warm shower, or turning on your heater
- Take care of your body by getting good sleep, eating well, and staying hydrated
What If I Experience Joint Pain Even If It’s Not Raining?
If you have arthritis and suffer from joint swelling, stiffness, and pain regardless of the weather, physical therapy is a conservative treatment option that can help to alleviate your symptoms. A physical therapist can help address many impairments caused by arthritis. Treatments may focus on:
- Increasing range of motion in the joint to improve functional mobility and the ability to participate in daily activities
- Strengthening muscles that surround the joint so that they can provide the support that the joint needs
- Controlling pain through the administration of modalities such as heat, cold, and electrical stimulation
- Providing education on posture training and body mechanics to allow optimal functioning in daily activities while limiting pain
If you have arthritis and are looking for relief from your joint pain and stiffness, call Respire Physical Therapy at (703) 671-1871 or click here to schedule an evaluation and begin the journey towards the more active lifestyle you desire with as little pain as possible!
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