Arthritis pain relief tips during winter

This entry was posted in General November 17, 2017

Arthritis is a common condition, affecting around 10 million people in the United Kingdom alone. It affects people of all ages and backgrounds and is manifested with joint stiffness and pains. It is usually managed through exercise, nutrient rich diets, weight loss and occasional use of pain-relief tablets. Although there is no scientific proof correlating the change of weather with a worsening of joints pain, many people suffering from this condition claim they can always predict rain and cold weather by the stiffness in their knees. Whether arthritis pain is directly connected to cold weather or not, if you’re a sufferer of arthritis, you should be prepared for the coldest months by following our winter tips:

Stay warm

Staying warm during the winter might not seem like an innovative tip for anybody, however, protecting your joints with extra layers, especially aching hands and knees, will make a massive difference with stiffness and aches. While staying warm might not reduce pain for those suffering with arthritis, it will make everyday activities and movements easier.

Hydrate

Hydration is a great way to reduce inflammation by flushing out harmful toxins. This is important for everybody and especially those suffering from arthritis, as hydration can really make a difference in the way they manage joint pain. The best way to stay hydrated is to drink 2 litres of water every day. Other drinks that, in moderation, promote healthy living and reduce inflammation include tea (green, black and white), coffee and smoothies. Alcohol should be eliminated or reduced to a minimum (no more than 14 units per week for women and 21 units for men) as excessive drinking is directly linked to inflammation and it will worsen joint pain as well as leading to dehydration.

Lose Weight

Many people suffering from arthritis have found much needed relief from its symptoms after losing excess weight. Because arthritis is a condition that affects the joints, losing weight means less pressure on knees and ankles, making everyday life and movements easier to manage.

The power of a healthy, anti-inflammatory diet is also the topic of recent studies. Many people suffering from the condition have found relief from eating nutrients packed meals or from switching to a Mediterranean, vegan or gluten free diet. Much of the relief experienced is specific to the person’s nutritional needs and general health so finding the best diet plan for arthritis pain relief will depend on experimenting with different lifestyles.

Exercise

Exercise is not only a great way to deal with winter and weight pressures but also to manage joint stiffness. Many people suffering from arthritis find relief with low impact exercise which focuses on stretching and strengthening the muscles supporting the joints. Yoga, pilates and tai chi inspired expired exercises work well, as do cardiovascular activities such as swimming and walking.

Take Supplements

As well as following an anti-inflammatory and nutrients rich diet, supplements are a great way to effectively deal with arthritis pain during winter. Especially during the sun-shy winter months, we don’t get as much vitamin D as we should from food alone. Recent research has found that people who suffer from arthritis are more likely to have a vitamin D deficiency. According to Carolyn Dean, medical director of the Nutritional Magnesium Association, vitamin D deficiency can directly affect the joints and immune system. Taking vitamin D supplements, as well as having a diet rich in oily fish and fortified dairy products, is the best way to ensure you can deal with the winter months at your very best.

Use heated pads and pillows

You can get almost instant relief from joint stiffness and pain with heated pads and pillows. Especially during winter, many people wake up with cold, stiff joints and find it difficult to get out of bed in the morning. This is as mobility is reduced by limited circulation and pain. Using a mattress heated pad strategically positioned where you suffer the most can really help with your morning routine.

Stay Safe

Above all, people suffering from arthritis should be extra careful when leaving the house. Especially during the coldest months, it is important to stay safe, as grounds are particularly wet and icy. Proper footwear as well as fall prevention gadgets such as grab rails and ferrule safety checks can prevent potentially dangerous accidents and help you deal with winter pressures.

While there is no scientific connection between the worsening of arthritis symptoms and winter pressures, many people experience joint pain and stiffness in different ways during the coldest months. If you are one of those people, follow our advice to stay safe this winter and contact us for more information about our arthritis-friendly products, available in store and online.

 

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