Does it seem like your joint pain is worse in certain weather?

Some people notice that a change in weather triggers an increase in joint pain. For example, when it’s cold outside, those who have arthritis often report their symptoms worsening. Some people also note an increase in joint pain when it’s rainy, humid or when the barometric pressure changes.

Research into how or why weather may affect joint pain is ongoing, but what’s most important might not be the why, but what you can do about it. Whether your joint pain is worse due to winter chill or summer heat and humidity, the following information may help alleviate joint pain caused by arthritis – whatever the forecast!

What is arthritis? Arthritis means inflammation of the joints. It’s a broad term as there are different types of arthritis. The most common is osteoarthritis, and understanding how it differs from other forms of arthritis can help you manage your symptoms more effectively – in any weather.

Osteoarthritis: Often called “wear-and-tear” arthritis, osteoarthritis (OA) is caused by the breakdown of the cartilage that cushions your joints. Over time, this leads to increasing pain, stiffness and reduced mobility. OA is most common in weight-bearing joints like the hips, knees, ankles, feet and spine.

Other types of arthritis: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or psoriatic arthritis are autoimmune diseases, where the body’s immune system attacks its own joints. These types of arthritis often involve systemic inflammation, meaning it affects your whole body.

All types of arthritis cause joint pain, but since their underlying causes can differ, treatment differs, too.

Tips for managing joint pain

1. Stay warm: Keeping your joints warm can help prevent stiffness. When it’s cold, dress in layers, use heating pads, and take warm baths to soothe sore joints.
2. Keep moving: Regular movement is key to maintaining joint health. Low-impact exercise and activities like yoga, swimming or walking (indoors when it’s cold or icy) can keep you active without putting too much stress on your joints.
3. Stretch daily: Incorporate gentle stretching into your routine to improve flexibility and reduce stiffness. Focus on stretches that target your problem areas.
4. Eat joint-friendly foods: Include foods rich in Omega-3s, calcium, and vitamin D in your diet. Fatty fish, leafy greens, nuts, and fortified dairy products can support joint and bone health. Increasing protein in your diet is also helpful.
5. Maintain a healthy weight: Extra pounds put additional stress on your joints. Losing even a small amount of weight can make a big difference in reducing pain, particularly in weight-bearing joints like your knees and hips.

Treatment options for arthritis pain If lifestyle adjustments aren’t enough to manage your pain, it’s time to find other options. We have a variety of non-surgical treatments available, from physical therapy to joint injections. The key is to address the pain early, before it limits your mobility or affects your daily activities. When less invasive options aren’t effective, it’s likely time to consider whether you’re a candidate for a surgical option.

No matter the forecast, we can help you take steps toward relief.

Call 507.474.3338 to schedule an appointment. No referral is needed. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan to keep you moving comfortably.

Randall Norgard, MD