Our daily lives now include dealing with joint pain, a prevalent affliction. It can happen any time of the year, but many people feel it worsens with colder temperatures. During the winter, people may have joint stiffness and excruciating pain that limits limb movement. It is yet unclear whether a drop in temperature causes joint pain to worsen, and additional research is required.
Many believe that appropriate medical attention, a healthy diet, and lifestyle changes can work together to deal with this. A few recommendations can help arthritis patients to enhance their quality of life and daily functioning throughout the winter. First, consult a doctor immediately if your pain worsens by the day. Then, look up the best orthopedic doctor near me.
Joint Pain and its Winter Connection
When the temperature drops, people with injuries or arthritis experience an increase in knee pain. Studies on how the weather may impact knee and other joint pain have yielded conflicting results. Even though there has been extensive research, there is still no conclusive proof of a connection. But there are some possible explanations.
- A drop in barometric air pressure in winter causes swelling in muscles, tendons, scar tissue, or joints, leading to pain.
- High humidity.
- Synovial fluid found in joints gets thicker in cold temperatures.
- Cold also makes your muscles tighten up, making your joints feel pain.
- In cold weather, your blood is routed to vital organs like the heart and lungs from your arms and legs to keep them warm. Taking the warmth away means aches and pain.
These are only theories; joint pain may be a cause of something else. Nevertheless, it is wise to seek medical treatment in case of severe joint pain. Search for the best orthopedic doctor near me and book an appointment.
Tips for Relief
- Keep yourself warm and cozy.
- Exercise regularly and keep yourself active.
- Hydrate your body well enough.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Take vitamin D and omega-3-rich foods.
Foods that May Help Reduce Joint Pain in Winter
While no known diet cures arthritis, several foods help reduce inflammation, strengthen bones, and improve overall health. Therefore, consuming these foods could be advantageous for your health and reduce joint swelling.
- Fish rich in fatty acids
Salmon and mackerel are rich in Vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids. It may work as an anti-inflammatory. Some more elements in these fish can help reduce cytokine enzymes and immune cell production that can cause inflammation.
- Soybeans
Vegetarians can benefit from soybeans as it has omega-3 fatty acids. In addition, they are rich in fiber and protein and low in fat, which is essential for your health.
- Garlic
Any suitable dish can make use of garlic. It is a popular ingredient in sausages, soups, and curries. Garlic contains an anti-inflammatory compound that can help to reduce the effects of cytokines.
- Ginger
Ginger consumption in fresh or dried form can relieve inflammation in joints.
- Green tea
Green tea has minerals, antioxidants, and even vitamins. In addition, drinking green tea can end internal inflammation while slowing down cartilage destruction.
- Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds contain plenty of omega-3 fatty acids and oils essential for your body. A small portion of almonds, flax seeds, and walnuts can go a long way. It provides relief from inflammation and helps with connective tissue problems.
- Fruits and Berries
Doctors always recommend fruits for patients to include in their diet. Some fruits are rich in antioxidants, such as apples, apricots, and cranberries. Consuming them can help the body get rid of harmful free radicals. Search for the best orthopedic doctor near me and find an expert physician for treating your joint-related illnesses.
- Olive oil
Olive oil helps you get relief from inflammation. Take a few tablespoons of olive oil for cooking as it will benefit overall health.
- Whole grain
Dietary fibers in whole grains possess anti-inflammatory agents. Therefore, they may reduce the levels of CRP in the blood. Heart disease, arthritis, and diabetes inflammation are associated with CRP markers.
- Dairy products
Skimmed milk, yogurt, and cheese are rich in Vitamin D and calcium. In addition, they help boost bone strength.
- Green vegetables
Spinach and broccoli are high in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and iron. In addition, broccoli can slow the progression of osteoarthritis, and spinach can decrease the effects of inflammatory agents associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Bone broth
Bone broth is rich in amino acids, chondroitin, and glucosamine that help maintain bone growth. Regularly consuming it may provide relief from joint pain.
A healthy lifestyle is essential for your muscles, joints, and overall health. Doctors and physical therapists can help you with any weather knee-related issue you may be dealing with in winter. So, if you are about to type in ‘best orthopedic doctornear me,’ look no further. Book an appointment and examine your joints to determine whether the pain you feel is due to a health condition.
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