5 Tips to Manage Cold-Weather Joint Pain
5 Tips To Manage Cold-Weather Joint Pain
Joint pain can be bothersome and even debilitating, making it hard to move through day-to-day activities without pain or discomfort. And as temperatures drop, joint pain can become even more noticeable. Unfortunately, seniors can be particularly susceptible to cold-weather-related joint pains. Thankfully, there are many things you can do to help relieve this discomfort and improve your lifestyle in the cooler winter months.
Why Do Joints Hurt More in Colder Weather?
Part of the reason joints become stiffer and more painful during colder weather is the physicality of temperature. Cold air tends to constrict blood vessels. This can lead to decreased flexibility in the surrounding joint tissues. Even in mild winters, like the ones in San Luis Obispo County, the cold weather can still cause some discomfort for seniors.
Tips To Manage Cold-weather Joint Pain
To address the issue of cold-weather joint pain, Senior Helpers San Luis Obispo County recommends several tips to help manage and reduce discomfort.
Do Low-Impact Exercise Regularly
Low-impact exercises, such as walking, swimming, or lightweight lifting, are effective ways to keep joints flexible and reduce pain. Although a stiff morning might discourage physical activity, regular movement consistently throughout the day helps lubricate the joint tissues, which may decrease discomfort in cold weather conditions.
Wear Warm Clothing
Another tip is to stay warm. Even in places with milder winters, multiple layers of clothing, a hat, and even a thin pair of gloves can be essential to keep you warm. By keeping the body adequately warm in cold weather conditions, you can minimize your joint pain and still be able to enjoy outdoor activities, which promotes mental well-being.
Take Warmer Baths or Showers
A warm bath or shower is an effective remedy for joint pain relief. The hot water helps increase blood flow and relax tense muscles, providing a sense of relaxation that soothes the entire body. Long baths are also perfect for applying topical essential oils known to reduce inflammation, such as eucalyptus, peppermint, and lavender oil.
Apply Heating Pads To Sore Joints
Heat therapy is a natural solution to joint pain stemming from cold weather conditions. Heating pads are used to target specific parts of the body that may be in discomfort, providing relief from tenderness and stiffness. When placed over key pressure points, it can help increase mobility by reducing inflammation in the sore area.
Prioritize Time With Loved Ones to Boost Your Mood
Unfortunately, joint pain can feel isolating, especially during these colder weather months. This is why you should prioritize your time with loved ones and practice meaningful interactions to boost your mood. Positive motivation can be a big factor in overall well-being.
Senior Helpers Offers Personalized In-home Care For Your Comfort
Being mindful of joint pain in cooler weather is vital to keep seniors safe and secure. At Senior Helpers San Luis Obispo County, we help provide more comfort through personalized care for seniors in the San Luis Obispo, Santa Maria, Atascadero, Paso Robles, and Arroyo Grande areas. Contact us today to learn more.