If you have arthritis, back pain or joint pain, you might notice that you feel achier during the fall and winter months. Cold weather affects joints, muscles and bones, and it often exacerbates pain, stiffness and aches in people with chronic pain and joint conditions. As a result, you may have trouble getting out of bed in the morning or going about your daily tasks as you normally would. While there isn’t always a way to avoid this increased pain during colder weather, there are things that you can do to alleviate your pain, minimize your symptoms and promote wellbeing all year long. Read on to find out more about cold weather and achiness and how you can feel better with help from a Brampton physiotherapist.
Why do joints ache in the winter?
There are a number of reasons why people experience escalating joint pain during the winter months. One of the reasons why you might experience more pain and stiffness in the winter is because of the way that our muscles react to colder temperatures. When exposed to cold, muscles tighten and contract as though they’re flexing. Prolonged exposure to the cold results in excessive flexing that leaves you feeling sore and fatigued.
Another reason why cold weather can increase achiness is because of how some people react to pressure. People with arthritis are often sensitive to changes in weather because cold temperatures also bring lower barometric pressure. Your brain and body can sense these changes in pressure. When the weather is colder and more humid and the barometric pressure shifts, it can heighten the sensation of pain in the joints.
In addition to these factors, some people might experience more pain and stiffness because they are less active during the winter. When you adopt a more sedentary lifestyle, your muscles can lose their strength, resulting in more pain, soreness and stiffness in your everyday life. One of the best ways to keep these problems at bay is to embrace an active lifestyle year-round, even when the weather outside isn’t as favorable.
Avoiding winter joint aches
You can improve your health and wellbeing with help from a Brampton physiotherapist to keep yourself in great shape throughout the winter months. Following a consistent exercise routine can promote overall wellbeing and help you stay healthy. Skipping regular exercise and daily activity during the wintertime can result in a number of negative health outcomes. Working with a professional who can help you stay on track will keep you moving forward so that you can achieve your goals.
Schedule an appointment with a Brampton physiotherapist
If you’re experiencing joint pain this winter, a Brampton physiotherapist can help you feel better and experience improved mobility. At Paramount Physiotherapy & Sports Injuries Clinic, we are dedicated to improving the wellbeing, health and quality of life of our patients through comprehensive physical care and treatment. Regardless of your health or your goals, our team is here to help you work toward a healthier and less painful lifestyle. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment with one of our care providers.