In addition to dry skin, many people experience aches and pain during winter. The cold conditions can affect how your body stores energy, which in turn can affect how joints function. Here's a guide to help you understand why winter weather triggers joint pain and how a chiropractor can help relieve the discomfort.

Common Questions About Joint Pain in Cold Weather

Why does cold weather affect joints?

In an effort to conserve heat, your body directs more blood to the heart, digestive organs, and lungs when it's exposed to cold temperatures. With less blood flowing to extremities, blood vessels in the joints of the legs, knees, shoulders, and arms constrict. The resulting stiffness can make it painful to use the joints. The synovial fluid that lubricates joints also becomes thicker in cold weather, which can make it less effective and lead to more pain when you move. 

Are some people more prone to this type of pain?

The atmospheric pressure typically changes in winter due to the cold weather. This change in pressure can cause poor blood circulation and nerve sensitivity that leads to increased joint inflammation. The associated pain is often more intense for people who already have inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis and chronic pain. 

How can I minimize cold weather-induced joint pain?

If you plan to go for a run, do yard work, or tackle any other tasks that keep you outside for long periods, stretches such as leg extensions, knee hugs, and arm circles will help loosen the tight connective tissue, so it won't become stiff as easily in the frigid environment. Remember to stretch for at least five minutes beforehand and wear multiple layers to keep your overall body temperature up. If possible, however, it's best to keep your workouts indoors to minimize exposure to the freezing temperatures.

What treatment options are available?

A chiropractor can address issues with weather-triggered joint pain that won't subside. They will perform manipulations in the affected areas to relieve muscle spasms and pressure placed on nerves. A chiropractor might also recommend physical therapy to make muscles and bones stronger, which can further alleviate painful pressure on the joint structures. 

If you're experiencing worse joint pain this winter, turn to South Main Chiropractic Clinic in High Point, NC. With over 25 years of experience, the chiropractor is committed to improving the whole-body wellness of residents throughout the Piedmont Triad region and offers joint manipulation, full-body adjustments, decompression therapy, massage, and additional treatments to restore mobility, while minimizing back and knee pain. Learn more about how the physician will help online, or call (336) 885-5200 to make an appointment.