5 Tips to Relieve Joint Pain in Winter

January 23, 2023

If the dead of winter is more like the pain of winter rings true to you, then this is the article for you. It’s not uncommon for our specialists to see an increase in joint pain sufferers during colder months. According to the CDC, conditions like arthritis, which cause stiff and painful joints, affect about 1 in 4 adults in the United States every year — and this is the season when that pain can feel its worst.

Tips for Joint Pain Sufferers

There is hope. Your orthopedic specialist can help you manage new and worsening joint pain. Depending on your unique situation, a doctor can craft an individualized plan for you that will do more than bring you relief but give you back your life. There are also things you can do at home that may provide you with some respite from the pain.

#1 The Obvious Tip for Joint Pain Relief: Lose Weight, Stay Active

There are some things we’ve all heard and know, but it doesn’t go without saying that weight loss can help with joint pain. Staying active can also provide pain relief. However, there’s a good chance you already know that and are trying to do both.

#2 Get All the Anti-Inflammatories

Yes, over-the-counter anti-inflammatories can help improve joint pain, but you can also introduce natural ones into your diet. Foods with omega-3 fatty acids like everything from avocados to krill oil and other specific fish can help. Additional go-to options include garlic, turmeric, onions, green tea, berries, and dark leafy greens.

#3 Go the Way of Water

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Dehydration increases pain sensitivity, and the low moisture in cold air creates an extra dry situation for your body. Up your water intake to ensure you’re moisturized inside and out.

#4 Get Hot in Here

Dress warmly and apply heat to keep the cold — and pain — at bay. When going outside, ensure that your problem joints are all bundled up. Staying home? Apply heating pads/blankets and wraps directly to the problematic joint area(s). You may even find relief in a warm bath or swimming in a heated pool where you can also get some of that “staying active” benefit mentioned in tip #1.

#5 Get More of That Allusive Vitamin D

Because you may not be spending as much time outside, look for ways to up your vitamin D intake. A deficiency in this nutrient can lead to increased joint sensitivity. Consume more foods with vitamin D (e.g., salmon, egg yolks, mushrooms, and more), and also have your doctor check your levels. If it’s low, they can recommend a supplement to take.

When to Call Beacon

Not all joint pain is created equal. If yours isn’t subsiding, it’s time to see an orthopedic specialist at Beacon. Our expert doctors have the experience to get you back to what you love. Schedule an appointment online anytime.