The Doctor Is In

By DAMON RASKIN, M.D | Special to the Palisadian-Post

Q:As the weather shifts, I am reminded that it seems like my joint pain increases in the fall. Is this true? Is there a reason for it? What can I do to get ahead of it and help manage it?

It is starting to get darker earlier, there are already pumpkins out in the patch and you are starting to bring down the sweaters from high up in the closet. As fall approaches and the temperature begins to drop, many of my patients who suffer from joint pain notice a worsening of their symptoms.

This phenomenon has been widely reported by my patients with arthritis, old injuries or other joint-related issues. But is there actually a scientific basis for this increase in joint discomfort or is it simply a matter of perception?

One of the most accepted theories is that changes in barometric pressure can affect the joints. As fall weather brings cooler temperatures, it also often brings lower barometric pressure. In individuals with joint problems, this decrease in pressure can cause tissues in the body to expand.

Although the expansion is small, it can increase pressure in the joints, leading to discomfort and stiffness. People with arthritis or joint injuries may be more sensitive to these changes.

When the temperature does drop (yes, even in the Palisades), the colder weather can cause the muscles, ligaments and tendons surrounding the joints to become stiffer. The body needs to conserve heat by sending more blood to the core and less blood flows to the extremities, which makes joints feel stiffer and achier.

Also, I have noticed that a lot my patients are less active in the cooler weather and engage in fewer physical activities, as there is less daylight. This decrease in activity can lead to less joint lubrication, reduced flexibility and worsened pain.

Another theory as to why this time of year make joints worse has to do with inflammatory triggers. It is this time of year when I see more patients with colds, flu, and many other viral and bacterial infections. These can act to make the whole body have more inflammation, especially in people with autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

While you can’t control the weather, there are things you can do to stay ahead of the pain and manage it better as it comes. Regular exercise is one of the best ways to keep your joints flexible and reduce stiffness. Low-impact exercises, like swimming, yoga and walking, are excellent options that don’t put too much strain on the joints. Also strengthening the muscles around the joints can provide extra support to reduce pain.

Other easy strategies to mitigate pain would be to dress warmly during cooler weather as well as take warm baths to help increase blood flow to the joints and muscles. Staying well hydrated is crucial for joint health, as dehydration can worsen joint stiffness, and consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, such as leafy greens, fatty fish, nuts and berries, are all good choices to help prevent joint discomfort.

Using heat and cold therapy can often help manage pain, but listen to your medical provider before starting supplements or medication to see if they are right for you and your condition.

Fall and winter can be fun-filled festive seasons, but more so if you take good care of your joints.

Have a question you want to see answered by Dr. Raskin in a future edition of the Post?
Send it to mypost@palipost.com for consideration.