Whether you have arthritis or a joint injury that left you with soreness and swelling, you may find that your discomfort worsens in cold weather. While experts are still uncertain about why joint pain intensifies in the winter, it’s suspected that changes in barometric pressure cause tissue expansion, which results in nagging aches. No matter the cause, here are some steps you can take to keep pain at bay this season.

How to Minimize Joint Pain This Winter

1. Bundle Up

Since chilly temperatures can exacerbate joint pain and stiffness, always dress warmly when you need to go outside. Heat helps increase blood flow, which regulates pain-producing chemicals and kickstarts your body's receptors to improve your pain tolerance. For this reason, always wear a hat, scarf, gloves, and layers when it's cold out, even if you're only walking the dog for a few minutes. Additionally, consider taking a warm shower, using a heating pad, or getting under an electric blanket once you're indoors.

2. Stay Active

It may be tempting to hibernate all winter long, but regular exercise is essential to keeping your joints healthy. Plus, staying active will also help you maintain a healthy weight, preventing added joint strain. Hit the treadmill or visit a nearby gym to try walking, indoor cycling, swimming, or using the elliptical. Just be sure to keep the impact low, especially if you have a joint injury.

3. Ease Joint Strain

There's a difference between staying active to keep your joints healthy and straining your joints. Wintertime activities, such as shoveling, can take their toll on your body, especially if you've had a joint injury. Whenever possible, recruit help to avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting. Consider investing in a snowblower if your area sees significant snowfall, and hire help for shoveling off your steps or walkway.

If you’re living with pain from joint injuries or arthritis, allow Orthopaedic Associates of Rochester in Monroe County, NY, to help. Specializing in treatment for musculoskeletal issues, these doctors cater to patients of all ages and offer a broad range of solutions. Their facility even has x-ray suites conveniently located in-house so you don’t have to travel for your imaging services. To schedule an appointment, call (585) 723-3000.