Winter Weather and Joint Pain
For many who typically suffer from joint aches, stiffness, and chronic pain, the colder temperatures can lead to increased discomfort. There isn’t one actual explanation as to why a drop in temperature causes joint pain. Snow shoveling injuries due to over-exertion and slip and falls on ice are some of the most common winter injuries that cause joint pain. Dr. Melinda Maxwell and her experienced team at Chiropractic Wellness Center in Newcastle provides integrated chiropractic care to patients suffering from all joint-related pain and discomfort.
Why Does Winter Weather Cause Joint Pain?
While there is no one explanation for why winter weather causes joint pain, there are several theories. The first theory relates to changes in barometric pressure or air pressure. When there is a drop in air pressure muscles, joints, and immediate tissues expand, but due to the limited space, the expansion results in pain. The colder temperatures in winter can thicken the fluid inside joints enhancing the feeling of stiffness.
The other theory is that during winter the body conserves available heat and channels it to more sensitive organs such as the lungs, heart, and digestive system. As a result, the arms, shoulders, legs, and knees get limited blood supply causing surrounding joints to contract, which in turn causes stiffness and eventually pain and discomfort.
Who Is More Vulnerable to Joint Pain During Winter?
Everyone reacts to changes in air pressure in different ways. However, those with arthritis, chronic pain, and other joint disorders are more susceptible to pain and discomfort from the cold weather.
Where Do You Feel Joint Pain in Winter Weather?
Joint pain in colder temperatures can happen in any part of the body, but the discomfort tends to be more pronounced in weight-bearing areas such as hips, knees, and ankles.
Contact Chiropractic Wellness Center for Long-term Joint Pain Relief
If you experience any abnormal changes in your joints such as swelling, chronic pain, inflammation, or difficulty in movement, seek our medical attention immediately before the problem escalates. Dr. Melinda Maxwell is a competent chiropractor with over two decades of experience in chiropractic care and offers effective noninvasive joint pain treatment for long term relief. Contact Chiropractic Wellness Center in Newcastle at (425) 641-7470 and schedule an appointment for instant diagnosis and customized treatment.