Weather changes are especially felt by people with joint problems: knees, shoulders, hips, and even fingers can "warn" about rain with unpleasant sensations. The publication Orthopedic and Sports Medicine explains why this happens and how to alleviate the condition.
How Weather Affects Joints
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Decrease in Atmospheric Pressure
Before rain, the pressure drops, causing the tissues around the joints to slightly expand, creating additional pressure on the nerve endings. This leads to pain and stiffness. -
High Humidity
Synovial fluid, the natural "lubricant" of the joints, becomes thicker, making movement difficult and causing discomfort. -
Drop in Temperature
Cold compresses muscles, slows down blood circulation, and reduces joint flexibility, leading to morning stiffness.
Who Feels Weather Changes the Most
- People with osteoarthritis — worn cartilage reacts to any tissue expansion.
- Patients with rheumatoid arthritis — inflammation intensifies with changes in pressure and humidity.
- Those who have suffered injuries or surgeries — scars and altered tissues are particularly sensitive.
- Elderly people — natural aging of tissues and reduced blood circulation increase discomfort.
Note: even after joint replacement surgery, pain may occur due to soft tissues around the joint, although weather dependence significantly decreases.
How to Alleviate Pain During Rain
- Movement: light yoga, Pilates, walking, swimming — activity stimulates blood circulation and joint lubrication.
- Heat: layering clothing, heating pads, warm baths, and compresses help relax muscles.
- Anti-inflammatory diet: turmeric, ginger, fatty fish, nuts, berries; less salt and fast food.
- Physical therapy and massage: improve microcirculation, reduce swelling, strengthen muscles around the joints.
- Supplements: as recommended by a doctor — glucosamine, chondroitin, collagen.
- Water: maintains synovial fluid, preventing dehydration of the joints.
When to See a Doctor
If pain persists for several days, swelling, redness, or fever occurs, it is necessary to visit an orthopedic specialist — this may be a sign of inflammation or infection.
Modern Solutions for Chronic Pain:
- Hyaluronic acid or PRP injections
- Arthroscopy for tissue restoration
- Joint replacement in case of limited movement
Even if it’s raining and the pressure is low outside, discomfort can be reduced: make ginger tea, stretch, and take care of your joints.
Source: TSN.ua
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