Perhaps your grandma sensed a storm approaching when her knees began to hurt. Or perhaps you’re experiencing more joint pain yourself now that the weather is colder.
It’s true that a lot of people who experience neck and back pain are often surprisingly accurate at predicting impending weather changes. Most chronic pain sufferers, including those with arthritis, say that their pain varies depending on the season.
According to a study that examined the relationship between chronic pain and days with high humidity, wind, and low atmospheric pressure, 75% of those who experience chronic pain believe the weather effects their pain.
The study then discovered that participants were 20% more likely to experience pain, on wet, windy, and low-pressure days than on an average day.
How Joints are Affected by Weather
Many studies on joint pain and weather have been conducted over the years, but no one can say for certain what the connection is.
There are, however, a few theories about the connection. One is that people suffering from joint pain, particularly arthritis, may be more sensitive to changes in barometric pressure. It’s possible that when the cartilage that cushions the bones inside a joint wear away, nerves in the exposed bones pick up on pressure changes.
Another theory is that changes in barometric pressure cause your tendons, muscles, and any scar tissue to expand and contract, resulting in pain in arthritic joints. Low temperatures can also cause the fluid inside joints to thicken, making them feel stiffer.
Which Type of Weather?
Several studies have attempted to pinpoint the types of weather changes affecting joint pain, but the results have been inconsistent.
A group of researchers examined the medical records of over 11 million Medicare visits and compared the dates to local weather reports. They found no link between weather changes and joint pain. Two recent Australian studies (one on knee pain and one on lower back pain) also found no link between weather change and pain.
Even so, many people with joint pain experience flare-ups when the weather changes, despite the fact that the science is unclear. Simply put, some people’s bodies may be more susceptible to weather changes.
Do You Experience Pain When It Rains?
· Again, it is entirely dependent on the individual. Here are some methods to reduce joint pain if you notice that changes in weather seem to worsen your chronic pain:
· Maintain your flexibility. Regular stretching and yoga practice are excellent ways to improve flexibility and maintain joint health. Muscle building may also be beneficial. The more muscle you use during physical activity, the better your joints will be supported.
· Practice water exercises. Working out in a warm pool is especially beneficial for loosening stiff muscles, strengthening joints, increasing muscle strength, and relieving pain. Water provides resistance while relieving pressure on aching joints.
· See a chiropractor on a regular basis. The neck, upper back, lower back, and extremities can all experience pain relief from spinal adjustments, or therapeutic movement of the spine. No matter the cause of your pain flare-ups, incorporating chiropractic into your daily life can help!
We’d love to help keep you pain-free when you’re ready to give chiropractic care a try! If you live in the Seattle area, click here to make an appointment at our Ultra Chiropractic office.