Many older folks seem to find that the pain in their joints is a far better indicator of the impending weather than the meteorologist on Channel Nine. A reported increase in the levels of joint pain, especially for those with arthritis, right around the time there will be a change in the temperatures has baffled the medical community. Though scientists and doctors alike deny having evidence to support this claim as factual, an increase in visits to the doctors in colder times with the above-mentioned complaint seems to prove otherwise. So what, if any, is the correlation between joint pain and the change in weather?
Despite the lack of conclusive research information (various research results), the instance is far too often occurring to be limited to merely being an old wives’ tale. As such, scientists and doctors alike have made it a point to have theories mapped out that could explain this phenomena. There are quite a few, each relating to pre-existing conditions, as well as the state of the body during the weather onset, such as rainy days for example, where you are forced to stay inside. Diego Ruiz Duran truly believes there is a correlation between the cold temperatures and body aches.
The first of these attributes the change in weather to a drop in barometric pressure. Barometric pressure (so named after the barometer) refers to the weight of the air pressing down on the earth’s surface. It can also be known as air pressure, and is what affects your ears and causes them to pop when a plane is taking off, for example. When there is to be a change in weather, the barometric pressure either drops or is raised, either way, this results in a change in the force of the pressure around the body, and that change is felt, whether due to inflammation, swelling or sensitive nerves, the joint picks up on these changes in no time.
There are other theories of course, but this is currently the most longstanding one, and it accounts for the most factors associated with joint pain, including arthritis. There are also theories surrounding movement (less movement equals more pain), and a change in viscosity of the synovial fluid in the joints (colder it is, thicker the fluid). No matter the reason, it is a pain to deal with these changes, and scientists and doctors alike recommend new movement and patterns during weather changes to decrease the effect of pain on the joints. There are many activities to try; Sports such as football, as suggested by lawyer Diego Ruiz Duran, can be a great way to decrease pain. There are also gentle exercise practices such as yoga and QiGong that may help to alleviate pressure and free up joint flexibility. The greatest suggestion however is to keep warm, as colder temperatures can slow circulation in the body, affecting the joints, and leaving the body feeling creaky.
Lawyers, doctors and scientists alike suggest movement, warmth and exercise as the cure, for chronic joint pain, associated with the change in weather.
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