Winter is almost around the corner, and it will be problematic for many people. Most physical conditions and ailments increase during this time of the year. One such condition in people is suffering from Arthritis, which is because the fall in barometric pressure causes joints to expand, resulting in pain and inflammation.
Due to low temperature, the synovial fluid (joint’s shock absorber) increases its thickness. This makes the joints more stiff and sensitive to pain. But don’t worry; Kitchener Physiotherapy can help you reduce inflammation. Here are a few ways which can help you manage Arthritis. Continue reading to know them.
Takeaway Tips For Managing Arthritis During Winter
- Exercise Regularly: Movement of muscles and joints is essential for people who have Arthritis. To maintain flexibility and strength, muscle fiber needs to contract and flex. During winter, people tend to be less mobile which can cause stiffness in joints and make the exercise even more challenging.
But you must push your limits and do at least 150 minutes of aerobic activity in a week. Light exercises such as walking, stretching, and bending are also enough for people with Arthritis.
- Keep Yourself Warm: As mentioned earlier, most joint related problems usually occur when the temperature goes down. Therefore, keeping yourself warm during winter is advised to avoid stiffness or inflammation, which can cause acute pain and discomfort.
Heat therapy by Kitchener Physiotherapy can also be very effective for stiff joints. It increases blood circulation, which helps to flush out pain-producing chemicals, thus stimulating receptors in the skin, which improves pain tolerance or resistance.
- Stay Hydrated And Take Vitamin Tablets: Staying dehydrated can increase sensitivity and pain. Drinking water will flush the toxins out of your body which can help in fighting inflammation.
Drinking enough water can also help in keeping the joints well-lubricated. You can also take supplements like Vitamin D tablets which can reduce pain in people who have Arthritis. In winter, the level of Vitamin D drops from the sun, so that you can take these supplements as an alternative.
- Dress Warmly: It only makes sense to wear warm clothes during winter to protect yourself from cold weather. Keep your aching legs, knees, and hands warm with gloves, boots, leggings, etc.
Wear an extra layer of clothing when you move out of the house, as more heat traps the heat inside and helps you keep warm. In addition, accessories like scarves, gloves, boots, and hats must be there in your wardrobe if you have Arthritis.
- Lose Weight: If you are obese and have Arthritis, make sure to reduce your weight little by little. This can be done by exercising and working out regularly. Weight loss and exercise prove to be effective in relieving pain and inflammation.
Being overweight puts a lot of pressure on the hips and knee joints. Losing weight can reduce the amount of weight the joints have to take, directly reducing your pain and discomfort.
Wrapping Up
Arthritis is joint and increases pain and discomfort in winter, especially in older people. It would be best if you did things to manage the pain and inflammation. Different types of Arthritis problems require different methods to cure. You can also seek professional help from Kitchener Physiotherapy, who can help you get relief.
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