5 Ways to Manage Arthritis Pain During the Winter

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If your arthritis symptoms, such as pain and stiffness, worsen each winter, you’re in good company. Research shows that nearly 80% of arthritis patients are sensitive to temperature changes, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer.

At Palm Beach Pain Institute in Delray Beach, Florida, board-certified pain management physician Marcie Merson, MD, specializes in treating arthritis. Even in Florida, where winters are milder, these five effective tips can help you feel your best until spring.

Simple steps to ease arthritis pain this winter

These five practical tips can help keep your joints mobile and pain-free over the coming months:

1. Stay active indoors

When your joints are stiff and painful, exercise probably isn’t at the top of your to-do list, but it should be! Regular movement supports joint flexibility and makes it easier to move comfortably. We recommend exercising for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Short, frequent workouts are more effective than moving once or twice a week. 

Don’t feel like you need to overexert yourself. Low-impact activities, such as walking, cycling, and swimming, can all support joint health.

2. Keep warm

Florida isn’t as chilly as other parts of the country, but winter temperatures are still significantly cooler than in the summer. Unfortunately, cold weather can lower barometric pressure and increase the thickness of synovial fluid, the substance that lines the joints. This change can make even small movements painful.

Staying warm improves circulation and reduces pain. Wear multiple layers of clothing so it’s easy to cool off if needed. You can also use heating pads, heated gloves, and cozy socks to stay warm. Soaking in a warm bath can provide similar benefits.

3. Eat healthfully

The holidays occur during the winter, which means many Americans consume fatty, sugary, and salty treats. While it’s okay to splurge occasionally, highly processed snacks and meals can increase inflammation and worsen joint pain.

Focus on balanced meals. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and emphasize anti-inflammatory foods such as fatty fish, leafy greens, berries, and nuts. 

4. Consider pain relief options

Mild arthritis can often be managed with regular movement and at-home care, but more severe pain may require additional support from over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication or topical ointments.

Before trying any new treatments, make an appointment with us to see if you qualify for medication management. Alternative measures, like acupuncture, osteopathic manual therapy (OMT), and massage, can complement other strategies and help keep your joints mobile and pain-free.

5. Protect your joints

Pain and stiffness can increase your risk of falls and other injuries, so it’s important to protect your joints. Wear comfortable, supportive footwear to reduce strain on your knees and hips. Pace yourself during daily activities, and if you start to feel stiff or sore, take a break. Similarly, consider using assistive devices. A cane or walker can help you feel stable on your feet, while a grabber tool can make it easier to reach items in the fridge or on a shelf. 

Schedule arthritis treatment today

Arthritis pain and winter go hand-in-hand, but by following these simple tips, you can reduce discomfort and stay mobile all season. For additional help, schedule an appointment today by calling our office at 561-499-7020 or booking online.