7 Tips for Managing Arthritis Pain in Winters

The condition can affect people of all ages, causing stiffness, swelling and pain that usually worsens with age. Moreover, it can also cause permanent changes in the joints. Severe arthritis can significantly decrease the physical movement of patients, making it difficult for them to even perform their everyday tasks.

The winter season can often make arthritis pain worse for the patients. Many patients experience a considerable increase in swelling, stiffness, fatigue and pain along with other common symptoms associated with arthritis. Sensitive pain receptors, more muscle spasms, drop in atmospheric pressure, reduced blood circulation, and less sunlight are some of the leading causes of increased arthritis pain during winters.

While arthritis is undoubtedly a painful condition, especially in the winter season, there are a number of effective ways that can provide you relief from the problem. Here are some useful tips that can help you manage arthritis pain in winters:

1. Wear warm clothes

When the weather is cold outside, it is always a good idea to wear an extra layer of clothing. Therefore, make sure you keep your hands warm with gloves and cover your knees, legs, and other arthritis-prone areas with warm winter clothes.

2. Stay hydrated

Increase your daily intake of water and fluids. Staying hydrated will help you stay more active and also benefit your overall health.

3. Lose weight if necessary

Arthritis pain can be worse for overweight and obese patients. It can increase inactivity and result in the symptoms getting worse in lesser time. Medical experts suggest that weight loss can not only help arthritis patients become more physically active but also cause notable improvement in the condition.

4. Use warm water

Warm water is known to be soothing for the joints. Taking warm baths or swimming in a heated pool are some great ways to get relief from pain for arthritis patients. However, it is important that you allow your body temperature to normalize before stepping out in the cold.

5. Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that can reduce inflammation in your joints. Therefore, incorporate foods such as walnuts, fish, flaxseeds, avocados, etc. in your daily diet. These foods will not only help you to deal with your arthritis condition but also improve your heart health.

6. Get a massage once a week

Arthritis pain emanates both from the joints as well as the muscles around the joints. In such a scenario, regularly massaging the affected areas can prove to be beneficial in relieving pain. Research suggests that one hour of massage once a week for a minimum duration of 8 weeks shows effective results in arthritis patients.

7. Take vitamin D supplements

Deficiency of vitamin D can make you more susceptible to arthritis pain. Medical experts from the pharma industry in India claim that arthritis patients are less likely to get sufficient vitamin D from sunlight, particularly during the winter season. Hence, it is important that you talk to your doctor if you need any supplements for vitamin D. However, make sure that you only take supplements manufactured by the top pharmaceutical companies to avoid any short or long-term complications.

While there is still no definitive cure for arthritis, following the simple tips mentioned above can help you manage pain and enhance your quality of life. In addition, you should also do light exercises and regularly take the medicines prescribed by your doctor. Remember, a few modifications in your daily lifestyle can not only improve your arthritis condition but also allow you to enjoy the winter season to the fullest.