Noticing stiffer, aching joints when the temperature drops? Maybe a familiar ache in your knees, ankles and toes happen to come in just when the weather starts to get chilly? You’re not just imagining things, cold weather and joint pain are often seen as something that go hand in hand.
Let us explore why exactly this happens, how cold weather and joint pain are related, and what you should do to counteract those aches and pains.
Why Does Cold Weather Make Your Joints Hurt?
While there have been countless studies conducted by doctors and specialists all across the world, the truth of the matter is that research on the connection between the two isn’t fully clear. There are a handful of reasons as to why your joints start aching when the cold weather rolls in, such as:
- Barometric Pressure Drops: When the pressure drops, tissues in your body expand ever so slightly, which can irritate your joints, especially if you have inflammation or arthritis.
- Lack of Activity: When it’s cold outside, we often get stuck indoors, meaning our joints lack the exercise and activity they need to stay limber. That inactivity can cause joint tightness and fatigue.
- Reduced Blood Flow: Cold weather tightens up our blood vessels, which can reduce the circulation of blood in our feet and ankles. The less the blood flows, the more stiff your joints become.
So yes, cold weather joint pain is very real, and it isn’t just for the elderly. If you have a past injury, arthritis, or even flat feet, you may feel it more acutely once the temperature starts to dip.
Cold Weather Foot Pain and Conditions
There are multiple foot and joint pains that are aggravated by colder, inclement weather, such as:
- Bunions
- Arthritis
- Lateral foot pain
- Achilles Tendonitis
Your feet and legs are often the first body parts that are exposed to the cold. Once you add in factors such as the various foot and joint pains you could be ignoring, the winter months can definitely feel harder on you and your body.
Many conditions that affect the feet and joints worsen in the winter due to the strain that is caused by stiffness, a lack of activity, and poor overall support.
How To Manage Cold Weather Joint Pain
While we may not be able to change the weather, we’re definitely able to help you manage the effects it may have on your body. Whether that’s with a consultation or some handy tips to keep your joints pain-free during the winter!
- Stretch and warm up: Gently stretching can improve circulation and keep your joints flexible.
- Wearing warm, insulated shoes: Supportive pairs of orthotics and help reduce your foot fatigue and cushion joints that suffer from pains.
- Staying active: Gentle exercise during colder weather can increase blood circulation and keep your joints from stiffening up.
While these tips may help you keep the pains from worsening, the only real way to keep your joints healthy and safe is with a professional’s input.
Let’s Talk About Your Pain
Is cold weather and joint pain slowing you down? Let’s do something about it. Whether you’re dealing with Achilles pain, arthritis, ankle sprains, or just good old-fashioned foot fatigue, we have the answers for every one of your questions. Schedule your appointment today and help us help you break the cycle of winter aches and have you step into the warmth of comfort and wellness.
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