Do Joint and Muscle Aches get Worse in the Cold

The winter chill often brings on aches and pain in the joints of many people.

These aching joints and muscles are often related to Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis.

So, for people with these ailments, cold and wet weather can definitely bring on discomfort. Some people say they can predict the rain, it is so apparent!

There is a possibility that the drop in barometric pressure can cause the surrounding tendons and muscles to expand. Because of the confined space in the body, this can cause pain in the joints and muscles, particularly in those with arthritis.

Another theory is that, and this is mainly for knee, shoulders, legs, and arms –  when it’s cold the body sends blood to the organs in the centre of the body to conserve heat. This leaves the extremities cold and stiff. because the blood vessels there are constricted.

But to be honest, there seems to be much confusion around this area and nothing has been proven definitively.

To prevent these aches and pains

• Dress warmly ( aprticularly if you are a runner – those legs, knees and ankles need protection)
• Warm up properly before exercising
• Maintain a healthy weight to ease the burden on your joints
• Apply heat to painful joints (not ice)
• Try not to sit for too long – walk around as much as possible to keep your joints mobilised and warm.
• Keep your feet warm!

We have the instinct to hibernate when it gets cold – and this is just the time to get active and keep the blood flowing. Exercises ease arthritic pain and increases strength and flexibilty.

To refer to Bowen Therapy here – Bowen won’t cure your arthritis – but the relaxation of the muscles around the affected joint is extraordinary. Once the muscles are released form holding themselves in a protective position the pain eases considerably.