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Joint Pain in Winter: 5 Remedies to Try

Winter is around the corner, and as temperatures begin to change many older adults who suffer from arthritis or osteoporosis might notice an increase in pain. While some practitioners don’t believe there is a link between joint pain and cold weather, other researchers argue that as the pressure in the air changes, it could cause tissues in our joints to swell. Luckily, if you suffer from joint pain in winter, there are simple at-home remedies and medicine alternatives to relieve pain and get you feeling back to normal.

1. Stay Active

Participating in light exercise and stretching can help warm up the muscles in joints and relieve pain. Swimming in warm water pools, walking on a treadmill, or trying a yoga class might help bring relief. Try something new and discover what works for your body!

2. Explore Alternative Medicine

Consider trying different non-pharmaceutical therapies such as a massage or acupuncture. Massage therapists use different techniques to identify points of pain and apply various amounts of pressure to the area. Consistent massages help many adults with chronic pain and discomfort. Slightly more aggressive types of therapies, such as acupuncture, use thin needles to relieve built-up pressure in specific areas of the body.

3. Try Supplements

Natural alternatives such as glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate have been found to help relieve pain for people who suffer from osteoarthritis and joint pain. Unlike other prescription medications, these supplements have very little side effects for its user. Other natural supplements in the omega-3 fatty acids family, such as fish oil help relieve pain and reduce the dependency on other pharmaceuticals.

4. Stay Warm

The simplest way to relieve winter joint pain is to stay warm. Using hats, gloves, and scarves might seem obvious, but they go a long way in keeping you comfortable and pain free. Remember to pad areas of discomfort, especially when going out in cold weather.

5. Hydrate

Some studies have shown that people are dehydrated experience more sensitivity to pain than those who are less dehydrated. Drinking plenty of water (at least 8 glasses a day) will help you combat pain while feeling alert and energized. Drinking water during the winter can be difficult for many. Consider using hydration packets or flavored sugar-free packets to give a little personality to your water.

Our Carespring skilled nursing and rehabilitation facilities in Dayton, Cincinnati, and Northern Kentucky wish you and your loved ones a safe and pain-free winter. When it comes to combating winter joint pain, what’s been working for you?