Have you ever heard the old wives’ tale that aching joints indicate a change in weather? There may be some truth it. Whether joint pain & weather has a connection or not, you can still try these pain-relief tips to help you make it through the winters.
Pain relief tips – Clothing
1) Choose to dress warm
Wear gloves to keep your hands and fingers warm and add extra layers to cover legs and knees.
2) Layer yourself
As the temperature decreases it becomes important for people with arthritis to keep themselves warm, so wear layers of warm clothing.
Pain relief tips – Food
3) Keep yourself hydrated
Drink lots of water. Even a slight dehydration can make you sensitive to pain.
4) Keep the weight off
Losing weight will improve your arthritis condition, even in the cold weather. You will see a significant improvement if you exercise, lose weight and eat a proper diet.
Pain relief tips – Habits
5) Take your exercises inside
Avoid exercising outside in the cold, but continue to be active. Try some indoor exercises, (you can find them on the internet). Get a treadmill or go to the mall and walk around, but keep yourself warm.
6) Take warm water baths
Warm water will soothe your joints and give you relief. Swimming in heated pools is a good exercise. Whatever you choose do not go out in the cold straight after a warm bath, let your body temperature normalize.
8) Keep yourself safe
In the winters when the weather turns icy cold you need to protect your joints from any further damage. Wear shoes that will protect your feet, if you are walking, walk on a smooth surface that is not slippery or rough.
Pain relief tips – Supplements
7) Take Vitamin D supplements
Though the sun is the best source of Vitamin D, in the winters you barely see the sun. So consult your physician and get Vitamin D supplements or start eating foods rich in Vitamin D.
9) Have Fish Oil
Fish oil contains Omega-3 fatty acids which reduces inflammation. Try and include fish oil capsules in your daily life after consulting your physician.
Pain relief tips – Therapy
10) Use NSAIDs
If your joint pain worsens despite the fact that you are taking all the precautions, try over-the-counter-medication or pain relievers. Always check with your doctor before taking any medication on your own and start with small dosages.
11) Get yourself a massage
Pamper yourself with a massage. Most of the pain you experience is originating from the joints or the muscles around the joints. Getting massages can loosen the muscles and reduce pain.
12) Try Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an age old Chinese treatment. If you want to try non-traditional techniques to release pain acupuncture is the best way to go. It will make you feel healthy and relaxed.