Winter and Weather Changes, What a Pain!

There are many reasons to dislike chilly, wet weather, including its potential effects on our bodies. Do you ever get headaches right before rainstorms? Or painful joints that ache more when the weather is cold? The weather and your environment can affect your body in undeniable ways. 

Research still hasn’t confirmed a cause-and-effect link between weather and joint pain, though many people insist they can predict the weather based on such aches. There are a few ways weather changes could be affecting the way you feel. 

• Barometric pressure: It’s believed that changes in barometric pressure trigger these sensations in the joints. Less air pressure surrounding the body can allow muscles, tendons, and other tissues around joints to expand. This can place pressure on joints, possibly leading to pain.
• Humidity: If you have arthritis or another type of chronic joint pain, you may find that unusually high or low humidity makes joints swell and feel more painful.

While you can’t avoid weather changes, there are a few stops to help ward off or ease any related pain issues:

• Stay warm: Cold weather can stiffen your muscles and joints. Layering clothes and maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature can help minimize the impact of low temperatures.
• Heat treatment: Warm showers, heat pads and hot water bottles help relax muscles and ease stiffness.
• Diet changes: Certain dietary adjustments help alleviate joint pain related to weather changes. Consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids – such as fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts – help reduce inflammation. Also, antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables in your diet provide additional joint support.

Chiropractic care helps if you’re experiencing joint pain due to weather changes, as it addresses the underlying causes and promotes long-term relief. Contact us to explore how to address your specific needs. Schedule an appointment online or call us today.