Full Answer
Does moving to a warmer climate help with chronic pain?
While some people with chronic pain do report feeling better when moving to a warmer climate, the body typically adjusts to new climates over time, so relief is likely to be temporary.
Does cold weather aggravate chronic pain?
The one point on which patients and some researchers can agree is that cold weather may aggravate symptoms associated with chronic pain. Patients with osteoarthritis (a type of arthritis characterized by the gradual degeneration of flexible joint tissue), for instance, tend to report noticeable shifts in pain with changes in temperature.
Should you move to a different climate for joint pain relief?
Many people say they find relief in warmer climates, but again, there’s no scientific proof that it will ease your aches. You don’t have to pick up and move to a different climate. There’s plenty you can do at home to relieve joint pain. When temperatures drop, try to keep yourself warm.
How does winter weather affect your joint pain?
She typically manages her pain with exercise, diet, weight loss, and the occasional over-the-counter pain reliever, but when winter weather sets in, Snow faces an extra joint-pain challenge. “I think it’s related to barometric pressure,” she says. “It definitely has made me more cognizant of the weather.”
What causes pain in the back?
Some of the most common causes of chronic pain are: 1 Low back pain 2 Arthritis, especially osteoarthritis 3 Headache (migraine or tension) 4 Multiple sclerosis 5 Fibromyalgia 6 Shingles 7 Nerve damage (neuropathy, such as in diabetes)
Why do people drink ginger tea?
When the weather turns bad, there’s nothing like a hot cup of tea to lift your mood. For those with chronic pain, you might try ginger tea. There are several reasons for this. First, ginger is considered an immune modulator that may reduce inflammation.
How long before barometric pressure drops?
You might get the best results by taking more medication 24 to 48 hours before the change in weather. That way, your body is prepared before the barometric pressure begins to fall. This kind of preventative measure may take the edge off the pain before it gets much worse.
Why does my joint hurt when it's cold?
Another reason why joint pain may increase with cold weather has to do with temperature. When your body detects cold, the normal reaction is to divert more blood flow to the core of your body. This means less blood reaches the joints and muscles, which may affect pain sensation.
Why do gloves hurt?
In these cases, swelling might be part of the problem. Swollen tissues put more pressure on the joints which causes pain.
How to deal with illness?
One of the most important things in dealing with any illness is a positive attitude. If you see inclement weather on the horizon, try not to let it get you down. Remember, it won’t last forever. The sun will eventually come out again. Keep a hopeful attitude, and it will go a long way in helping you manage your pain.
What to do if you notice bad weather?
If you notice bad weather in the next few days, be prepared. For instance, the day before a storm you might not want to plan a lot of physical activity. Also, if your doctor agrees, it might be worth adjusting any medication you use for pain. This could take some experimenting — again, with a doctor’s guidance.
What We Know About Pain and Colder Weather
Some people believe that when it is colder outside the barometric pressure drops which can cause muscles and joint tissue to expand which can cause pain, especially in our smaller joints.
How to Avoid Increased Cold-Weather Pain
You can’t change the weather, but you can make yourself more comfortable by changing your behavior during cold weather. Here are a few tips:
Bailey A. Ellis, PA-C, M.S
Bailey Ellis PA-C, MS, is a physician assistant with LG Health Physicians Specialty Medicine —Pain Management. She received her Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Philadelphia University.
About LG Health Hub
The LG Health Hub features breaking medical news and straightforward advice to help individuals of all ages make healthy choices and reach their wellness goals . The blog puts articles by trusted Lancaster General Health clinical experts, good 'n healthy recipes, videos, patient stories, and health risk assessments at your fingertips.
Understanding cold weather and sinus problems
Cold weather sinus pain can be caused by a variety of common factors and illnesses. Here’s what we see the most:
Tips for treating nasal congestion in cold weather
Nasal congestion in cold weather is incredibly common. Why else would it be called a “cold?” Luckily, there are many ways to help alleviate your cold weather sinus pain.
Why do I get sinus headaches in winter, and what can I do about them?
You’re most likely to get sinus headaches in winter when there’s a sudden change in the weather. That sudden changes in weather affect the sinuses is no secret, but what exactly is the reason behind increased sinus pressure and sinus headaches?
Kaplan Sinus Relief treatments for cold weather sinus pain
Sufferers of cold weather sinus problems don’t need to dread winter. And they don’t need to be dependent on OTC medicines, sprays, or cleanses either. Luckily, there are treatment options that can provide patients with long-lasting sinus relief.
Freeze out cold weather sinus pain
Dr. Kaplan of Kaplan Sinus Relief is one of the best balloon sinuplasty specialists in Houston. He and his staff have performed thousands of balloon sinuplasty procedures, giving many Texans the ability to live their lives without cold weather sinus pain.
How to relieve pain from cold?
One way to combat cold-induced pain is with some spicy heat in the form of capsaicin, the active ingredient in chili peppers. “Rub a capsaicin lotion or gel over painful joints to help ease the pain and reduce swelling,” says Don R. Martin, MD, a rheumatologist with Sentara RMH Rheumatology in Harrisonburg, Virginia. “You may feel a slight burning sensation but that should subside within a minute or two.” A meta-analysis published in the journal Systematic Reviews found scientific evidence dating back decades showing that capsaicin has pain-relieving properties for both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
How to get rid of arthritis pain in the morning?
2. Take your meds in bed. Crawling out of a warm, cozy bed on a cold day is no fun. Add in arthritis pain and it can be pure torture. Keep your daily arthritis and pain medications within reach of your bed.
What to wear when your joints are flaring?
On cold days when your joints are flaring wearing a resting splint can help relieve inflammation and give you some pain relief, Dr. Osterman says. These devices, usually made of plastic and secured with velcro, work by temporarily immobilizing the joint and allowing it time to rest, he explains.
What is the best drink to take for arthritis pain?
10. Sip a mug of golden milk. Nothing feels as good as a hot drink on a cold day and “golden milk” isn’t just comforting; the turmeric spice that gives the beverage its characteristic “golden” color has been shown to reduce arthritis pain, Dr. Martin says. Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory.
How to relieve arthritis pain?
There’s a reason heat is often the first thing recommended for joint pain — it really helps, Dr. Askanase says. Heat and moisture together often work better to reduce arthritis pain than either on its own so take advantage of this by spending some time in a hot sauna or steam room (check your local community center or gym). If you prefer to stay at home, a hot bath often does the trick, she says. Keep all the doors closed and the fan off so the steam can build up in your bathroom.
What is paraffin wax?
Paraffin is a type of wax that melts at a relatively low temperature, which allows you to dip your hands, forearms, feet, and lower legs into it without being burned. This may sound a little strange but it can really help reduce pain and swelling from arthritis, Dr. Osterman says. The wax coats your skin and as it dries it holds the heat in longer than a traditional foot soak or warm compress (although those can be very helpful forms of heat therapy for arthritis as well). “Anything that uses heat can help reduce stiffness and pain,” he says. Plus you could end up with softer, smoother skin.
How to release muscles in joints?
Cold weather can cause muscles to tighten up, increasing pressure and pain in inflamed joints. Self-massage is a quick way to release the muscles surrounding painful joints, says A. Lee Osterman, MD, professor of hand and orthopedic surgery at Thomas Jefferson University and President of the Philadelphia Hand Center. Take the time to learn some simple self-massage techniques that you can do at home, like these tutorials for massaging arthritic joints such as your knees, hands and feet, jaw, and neck. You can also talk to a physical therapist who specializes in arthritis to show you some techniques that will target the specific joints that are causing you pain.
How to get rid of neuropathy from cold?
Taking part in light cardio can help warm up your muscles and promote good circulation, warding off the neuropathy caused by the colder temperatures. Try gentle movement exercises such as yoga, walking, elliptical and light weight training. Even a light swim in a heated pool could help to keep your body limber and ease away muscle tension.
Why does barometric pressure increase pain?
The change in barometric pressure — due to temperature drops — intensifies pressure on the nerves, which send pain signals to the brain. Your perception of pain is increased as the nerve signals slow down because of the pressure.
Why does neuropathy get worse?
Neuropathy — like most chronic pain — often gets worse as temperatures drop. Blood flow slows in your outer extremities when your body is exposed to cold. Nerve pain — especially in your hands and feet — increases as your circulation decreases.
How to stop nerve pain from cold?
Avoid caffeine. It’s nice to have a warm drink when it’s so cold, but try to stay away from caffeinated beverages. Consuming high amounts of caffeine can cause blood vessels to temporarily narrow, restricting the blood flow to your extremities. This could lead to increased nerve pain.
What to wear when going outside?
Make sure to wear the winter essentials. A sturdy coat, hat, scarf, gloves and thick socks are helpful when going outside. These items will prevent your body heat from leaving and the cold temperatures from getting to you. Keep your body heated and covered to help blood flow and muscle stiffness.
How to get a snowman?
Take an indoor break. Although it’s fun to build a snowman or take a walk in the brisk air, avoid staying outside for prolonged periods of times. Take breaks indoors often. This will let the warmth return to your body, blood flow to increase, and muscles to relax.
Can cold weather cause nerve pain?
Four tips to combat nerve pain during cold weather. It’s the most wonderful time of the year. But if you experience chronic pain, lower temperatures can make it one of the most difficult times of the year. Neuropathy — like most chronic pain — often gets worse as temperatures drop.
Flexibility, Movement, and Joint Pain
Chronic joint pain can stem from a number of causes. For most people, the most common cause of joint pain is arthritis, the two main forms of arthritis being osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Along with arthritis, the physical symptoms of a vitamin D deficiency may include muscle pain in the joints.
Minimizing Chronic Joint Pain in Cold Weather
Self-treatment can help in alleviating chronic joint pain and that usually involves applying some form of heat. One article noted,
Pain and Performance Solutions for Your Chronic Joint Pain
For chronic joint pain, as with any injury, the first step in recovery is letting us get to know you and your pain issues. After making your first appointment, we’ll ask a series of questions to learn about your present discomfort as well as any history of pain.
An Increase in Noticeable Symptoms
The one point on which patients and some researchers can agree is that cold weather may aggravate symptoms associated with chronic pain. Patients with osteoarthritis (a type of arthritis characterized by the gradual degeneration of flexible joint tissue), for instance, tend to report noticeable shifts in pain with changes in temperature.
Cold Weather and Issues with Circulation
Poor circulation is a symptom of many chronic conditions, and the scientific community agrees that cooler weather affects circulation. For patients with underlying conditions like diabetes, decreased circulation can aggravate problems with joint and back pain.
Changes in the Perception of Pain
One of the possible reasons for the disconnect between scientists and some patients with cold weather pain issues may be the very nature of pain itself. While Beverly Hills spine surgeons can often accurately pinpoint the cause of chronic pain through x-rays and MRIs, pain itself is subjective.
Amplification of Pain Signals
Another theory on the possible connection between cold weather and increased chronic pain involves bodily changes. Blood vessels in limbs constrict, or shrink, to compensate for a loss of heat to maintain the body’s core temperature. As a result, pain signals sent via nerves may be amplified.
Why do my joints feel stiff?
Low temperatures can also make the fluid inside joints thicker, so they feel stiffer. You might also feel more pain when the weather keeps you from moving around as much as you typically do. People tend to stay indoors and lounge around more when it’s cold and rainy outside, and inactive joints can get stiff and painful.
How to get rid of achy joints?
Your body absorbs the heat, which may soothe achy joints. You can also use a heating pad on sore spots. Ask your doctor about pain medications like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs ). Keep a healthy weight and stay active. Try exercise that’s gentle on the joints, like yoga or swimming.
How to build muscle and bone strength?
Try exercise that’s gentle on the joints, like yoga or swimming. That will help you build up muscle and bone strength. If you go outside to exercise, limber up first with some gentle stretches. Don’t strain your joints if you don’t have to. Let someone else lift those heavy boxes.
How to get rid of joint pain?
When temperatures drop, try to keep yourself warm. Take warm showers or baths, dress in layers during the day (including gloves and warm socks), use an electric blanket at night, or crank up the heat inside your home.
Does barometric pressure affect joints?
Barometric pressure -- or the pressure of the air -- can affect joints, but humidity, precipitation, and temperature are also at play. That makes it tricky for scientists to pinpoint exactly what it is about the weather that leads some people to report more pain when it’s cold, rainy, or humid.
Can weather change cause joint pain?
But even though the science isn’t clear, flare-ups when the weather turns are very real for many people with joint pain. Some people’s bodies may just be more sensitive to changes in the weather. Many people say they find relief in warmer climates, but again, there’s no scientific proof that it will ease your aches.
Is barometric pressure sensitive to arthritis?
Still, there are a few theories about the relationship. One is that people with joint pain, especially arthritis, may be sensitive to changes in barometric pressure.
What to do when the weather turns icy?
Particularly when the weather turns icy, people with arthritis need to protect their joints from further damage. If you’re going outside, pick solid, supportive shoes with good treads and try to walk on a surface that doesn’t look slick, Libman advises.
How much omega 3 oil should I take for arthritis?
The Arthritis Foundation recommends up to 2.6 grams of fish oil capsules twice a day. Make sure to let your doctor know if you try omega-3s, as they can increase the risk for bruising or bleeding.
What to wear when it's cold outside?
If it’s cold outside, keep aching hands warm with gloves, and add extra layers over knees and legs. “I’m one of those people who loves to wear dresses and skirts,” Snow says, “so when it’s cold, I also wear tights or leggings to stay warm.”
Does vitamin D cause arthritis?
Low levels of vitamin D might play a role in how sensitive you are to arthritis pain, according to research in the September 2015 issue of Pain Management. Being deficient in vitamin D also raises the risk for osteoporosis, Libman warns. You're less likely to get enough vitamin D from its natural source, sunlight, in the winter, so talk to your doctor about your need for supplements or vitamin D-fortified foods.
Can you take pain relievers with snow?
Even if, like Snow, you prefer to treat your joint pain with lifestyle changes rather than medication, you may want to take an over-the-counter pain reliever when your joint pain seems to worsen with the weather . The ACR guidelines include a recommendation to use these over-the-counter pain relievers for osteoarthritis. However, Libman says that, "to avoid side effects, take the lowest dose for the shortest amount of time, and always check with your doctor first to make sure it is safe for you to take.”
Can I get a massage?
Yes, you have permission to indulge yourself and get a massage. “A lot of what’s happening in terms of pain is [that] some is emanating from the joint and some from the muscles around the joint,” Libman explains. Getting an hour-long massage once a week for at least eight weeks was shown to reduce pain, according to research in the June 2015 issue of The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.
Is it good to swim in a heated pool?
Swimming in a heated pool is both great exercise and soothing to joints. You can also get relief from warm baths, according to the Arthritis Foundation. Just don’t go right out into the cold after your soak. Let your body temperature normalize a bit first.
