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Do you sometimes feel like you're a human barometer? You're body could tell you when
the weather is going to change? If so-join the club. Many people tend to feel aches and pains in their joints this time of the year.
It appears to be the change in barometric pressure, rather than changes in temperature,
that affects your joints. Barometric pressure is simply the weight of the atmosphere pushing down on us.
Arthritis patients tend to report pain and stiffness in inflamed joints when the pressure
changes, especially when there is either a rapid rise or fall of the barometer. Here are some things you can do to cope better this season.
Try taking a warm shower every evening before bed. Be sure to stay active. If the
cooler weather keeps you from your regular exercise routine-explore an indoor exercise such as water aerobics. If any joints of your joints are inflamed-apply ice until the skin numbs up a bit. If your joints are not inflamed-but are aching and stiff, you may want to add heat for about 15 minutes. If you're overweight you need to get your weight down- carrying around extra pounds can compound joint problems.
One last tip-make sure to stick with your medication regimen. If you haven't talked with
your doctor lately about your arthritis medicines-now is a good time. |