How Warmer Weather Conditions Affect Joint Pain
We’ve all heard the people living with arthritic conditions complaining
that their joints ache on rainy days—but is the same true when it
comes to higher temperatures? With the temperature and humidity levels
on the rise, it’s important to understand this connection between
weather conditions and chronic pain. Here’s what you should know.
Temperature & Barometric Pressure
According to the
Arthritis Foundation, changes in barometric pressure in your environment are the most influential
when it comes to causing joint pain. Barometric pressure, also known as
atmospheric pressure, refers to the weight of the atmosphere that surrounds us.
When there are drastic changes in temperature, barometric pressure also changes.
Studies suggest that changes in barometric pressure can influence the expansion
and contraction of your tendons, muscles, as well as your bone and scar tissues.
This means that a sudden increase in temperature can cause joint aches
and pains to increase. It is also important to note that warmer temperatures
themselves should not exacerbate joint pain. Once temperature levels regulate
and become more stable, your joint pain should lessen.
Tips For Managing Joint Pain
As we prepare for a spike in temperatures, the aforementioned information
may seem daunting. Fortunately, there are ways you can help to minimize
your arthritic symptoms while you wait for the temperature to even out.
Follow these tips to keep your pain at bay this summer:
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Use a cold compress to relieve swelling and inflammation.
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Massage the affected joint and the surrounding muscles to reduce stiffness.
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Try yoga to improve flexibility and range of motion.
Orthopedic Care in Gillette, Wyoming
If you have concerns when it comes to your orthopedic health,
Powder River Orthopedics & Spine (PROS) is here to help in Gillette, Wyoming. We can evaluate your options
so you can rest assured that you get the best possible outcome and are
back to a happy and active life in no time.
Call the PROS at 307.686.1413 or visit
www.cchwyo.org/PROS
to learn more.