When you suffer from arthritis, even the most minor changes in weather – cooler temperatures or higher humidity – can have a big impact on your aches and pains. You may find yourself dreading the days when it’s overcast or dreary outside, knowing that your arthritis gets worse in damp, rainy weather, making it hard to feel comfortable in your own body.
If this is you, then don’t worry: there are lots of things you can do to lessen these effects!
In this blog post we’ll look at arthritis, why it can seem worse with damp weather and how you can help alleviate the symptoms so rainy days won’t be so miserable after all!
What is arthritis?
Arthritis is a general term used to describe inflammation of the joints.
There are several different types of arthritis, the most common being osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, while other types include psoriatic arthritis, gout, and lupus.
Each type has its own set of causes and risk factors, and symptoms can vary widely from person to person.
What’s the difference between Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis?
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of this condition, caused by the wear and tear on the joints. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the bones in the joints wears away, causing the bones to rub against each other, leading to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility in the affected joints. It usually affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine.
Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation and damage. This leads to pain, stiffness, and a loss of function in the affected joints. It can affect many joints throughout the body and can also lead to systemic symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, and anaemia.
Why does arthritis seem to worsen in damp weather?
A 2014 study of 222 patients with osteoarthritis of the hip seemed to support a finding that symptoms were influenced by barometric pressure and relative humidity.
When the barometric pressure drops, as it often does during a period of damp weather, it can cause the joints to expand, leading to an increase in inflammation and pain for people with arthritis. The theory is that because the joint cavity is enclosed and filled with synovial fluid, a decrease in the outside atmospheric pressure causes the gas in the cavity to expand, leading to increased pressure on the joint.
Another reason may be the physiological response to the weather; people may feel more prone to stay inside during rainy or colder days, which can lead to less physical activity and then stiffness in the joints.
The relationship between weather and arthritis symptoms is complex and varies from person to person and not all people with arthritis experience a worsening of symptoms in damp weather. Some people may find that their symptoms are worse in cold weather, while others may find that hot weather makes their symptoms worse. Factors such as age, overall health, and the type and severity of arthritis can also affect how weather affects arthritis symptoms.
What can help address the effects of arthritis?
There are several things that can be done to alleviate arthritis symptoms during damp weather.
One of the most important is to try and stay active and engage in regular exercise like swimming or yoga, as this can help to reduce inflammation and strengthen your joints.
Staying warm and dry can also be helpful for people with arthritis, as being cold and damp can worsen joint pain. Likewise, wearing warm clothing, including gloves and a hat, can help to keep your body warm and reduce joint pain.
In addition, physical therapy and occupational therapy can be beneficial as they can teach people how to move and use their joints properly. It’s also important to protect the joints from further injury by using assistive devices such as canes or walkers if necessary and avoiding activities that put excessive stress on your joints.
What should I do If I feel my arthritis is becoming unbearable?
There’s no cure for arthritis, but treatment can reduce inflammation and relieve pain and stiffness.
Seek professional advice if your symptoms worsen. A rheumatologist, a specialist in the treatment of arthritis and other inflammatory conditions, can help to develop a treatment plan.
How can an osteopath help someone with arthritis?
Osteopaths are trained to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions, including arthritis by using manual techniques to relieve pain and improve joint mobility.
Click here to get help if you’re interested in how we can help!
Osteopathic treatment can be particularly beneficial because it can help to reduce pain and improve joint mobility without the use of drugs. Once an examination is complete, the osteopath will develop a personalised treatment plan for you, which may include a combination of different manual techniques such as Soft Tissue Techniques, Joint Mobilisation or Muscle Energy Technique.
In addition, an osteopath can also help you to improve their posture and movement patterns, which can help to reduce the strain on the affected joints.
What are your next steps?
If you’re struggling with arthritis, know that you’re not alone and that there are things you can do to help lessen the symptoms.
Many believe that damp weather makes arthritis worse, and if you feel like your symptoms are worsened by the weather, there are steps you can take to find relief. Be sure to and keep moving throughout the day to support joint flexibility, stay dry and dress warmly.
If pain persists, consider seeing an osteopath who can provide targeted treatment and advice on how to manage your condition.
Contact The Form Practice today to book an appointment.