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Arthritis: Is winter a problem for your arthritis?

December 6th, 2006

Winter poses a few problems for patients with arthritis especially arthritis of the hips and knees. Your driveway, the pavements and the roads are often wet and slippery. Early morning frost or ice on the road is also a problem. There is a risk of slipping and falling.

In addition the cold weather may increase stiffness and pain. I live in England and although it is not that cold here, it is very damp. Many arthritic patients have increased pain and stiffness and a few who go off to warmer climate such as Spain admits that their pains and stffness are a lot less.

Although there is no concrete evidence that weather has an impact on the symptoms of arthritis, anecdotal evidence is different.

Dr.Hollander did a trial to assess the effect of temperature, humidity and atmospheric pressure on arthritis. He found that there was more joint pain and stiffness in high humidity and lower pressure. Weather only affects the symptoms. It does not have any affect on the disease itself.

Elderly arthritic patients who have moved to Florida will tell you that their arthritis feels better. The facts really is that they are having fewer symptoms.

If you can move to warmer drier climate that is fine. For various reasons not all of us can. I personally prefer to stay where I am. So in winter make sure you are kept warm. You may be inclined to do less in winter. Remember exercise is good for your joints and muscles. Inactivity may increase your pain and stiffness. You do not need to go outdoors to exercise. There are lots of exercises you can do indoors. If you like walking but you are worried about the risk of slipping and falling, get an exercise bike.

Remember that in winter there is less sunshine and your body will not manufacture enough Vitamin D to keep your bone strong. Make sure your consume foods rich in Vit D or if necessary take a supplement.

Dr.Phil Hariram,

Arthritis Guide.

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