Many seniors can boast the ability to predict changes in the weather. You might think they’ve acquired this skill through a lifetime of experience, perhaps by observing signs like leaves turning over to show their silver underbellies. Or maybe they rely on an updated version of the Farmers’ Almanac. However, if you guessed any of the above, you’d be wrong. Ask a senior, “How do you know the weather is changing?” and they might say, “I can feel it in my bones.” If you’re one of these individuals with an internal forecasting system, you likely have arthritis. Arthritis causes swelling and tenderness in the joints, with symptoms like joint pain and stiffness that typically worsen with age. So, can weather really affect joint pain? Let’s take a quick look at what happens to your joints when the weather changes, and in Part Two, we’ll address some helpful tips on how you can cope with arthritis pain.
What can happen to your joints during weather changes?
1.Barometric Pressure (weight of the air):
Many individuals report that changes in barometric pressure can cause their joints to ache, especially before storms. Lower pressure may allow tissues around joints to expand, increasing pressure on the joints causing discomfort.
2. Temperature:
Cold weather often leads to stiff joints. In colder temperatures, muscles can tighten, reducing flexibility and making movement more painful.
3. Humidity:
High humidity levels, particularly when combined with cold temperature, can exacerbate joint pain by making the joints feel stiffer or swollen.
4. Precipitation:
Rain and snow are often linked with increased joint pain, potentially due to the drop in barometric pressure that precedes these weather events.
5. Weather-induced Activity Changes:
In colder weather or during rainy periods, people tend to be less active. Reduced movement can lead to stiffness in the joints, as regular activity helps to keep them flexible.
The exact cause of joint pain with weather changes isn’t fully understood, however the above-mentioned factors do provide a reasonable explanation for why so many people with arthritis or joint issues experience discomfort in certain weather conditions.
Stay tuned for “I Can Feel It in My Bones Part Two” for effective ways you can manage your arthritis pain.
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