You’ve heard it before. Maybe you’ve said it yourself. But is there any truth to the claim that aching joints can predict cold or wet weather? While plenty of arthritis sufferers would answer with a resounding 'yes', researchers are still looking into what could cause the phenomenon.

According to Lori Turnock, DO, Board-Certified Family Medicine and Primary Care Sports Medicine Physician on staff at Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital,  there are a couple of possibilities. “Some research suggests that changes in barometric pressure can cause tissues around the joints to swell,” says Dr. Turnock. “Another theory is that muscles stiffen more in cold weather, putting traction on the joint which can cause pain.”

Move more, suffer less
Dr. Turnock encourages patients to avoid the temptation to hunker down and hibernate until spring. In fact, staying active is a very good way to keep your joints strong and reduce the chance of pain.

“For people with arthritis, being less active in winter could lead to joint stiffness,” Dr. Turnock says. But, there are steps you can take when the weather outside is frightful.

• Dress appropriately. Wearing several lightweight layers when it gets cold will help keep your muscles warm.
• Get active. “Physical activity such as light strength training keeps the muscles around your joints strong and can take some of the pressure off of the joints,” Dr. Turnock says.  Low-impact activities like walking, swimming or bicycling are good exercise options for people with arthritis.
• Warm up before you exercise. Opt for a five-minute walk or jumping jacks rather than stretching.
• Cool down after activity. Easing out of your exercise is just as important as easing in. Take the time to gently stretch your muscles and relax your body when you’re through with your workout.
• Practice good body mechanics. “Whether you’re a runner, trying yoga or exercising at home, using proper technique will reduce the chance you will injure already painful joints,” says Dr. Turnock.
• Maintain a healthy body weight. “Weight puts stress on our joints, so if you’re carrying excess weight for your frame you’re making your knees work harder than they should,” Dr. Turnock explains.

If you’re a winter athlete, Dr. Turnock urges you to ease into your favorite seasonal activity. “Get your ‘ski legs’ back by using a balance board to simulate the movements you’ll make on the slopes,” she says.

Listen to your body
Whether your joint pain is due to arthritis, a loss of cartilage or a traumatic injury, knowing how to reduce the discomfort from flare-ups is key. “Never push through the pain. Remember: ‘No pain, no gain? No way.’ Pay attention to your body’s signals. If a movement hurts you, it’s time to stop,” Dr. Turnock cautions.

If your pain is not improving with rest, and trying measures such as applying ice and an ace wrap aren't helpful, go to your doctor for medical attention. If you’re suffering from chronic arthritis pain and are having trouble finding relief, Dr. Turnock suggests talking with your doctor to get the proper diagnosis of the joint pain and to discuss treatment options that could help reduce aches and pains.

“Your doctor has lots of resources to help you. He or she can work with you to develop a regimen that works for you,” she says. 

Options may include development of a sport specific exercise program, physical therapy, oral or topical over the counter or prescription medications, orthotics, braces or joint injections.

Don’t go another year without a doctor. Call 866-533-7968 to find a physician for your family today.