As winter approaches, it may bring various health challenges, especially for those struggling with joints, spine, and lower back pain. Arthritis symptoms usually worsen in this season. Winter may be a difficult season to deal with, but taking proper pain management measures can prevent your symptoms from worsening and improve your ability to carry out your everyday activities.

Winter Pain

It is not yet completely known why joint pains worsen during the winter. However, one constant factor is the change in temperature. Lower temperatures may cause ligaments, muscles, and joints to stiffen.

Imagine the tissues around a bone joint as a balloon. In low air pressure, these tissues may expand a little, putting pressure on the joints. This may result in stiff, tight, or painful joints. However, your pain doctor can help you manage this pain so you get through the holiday season more smoothly and free of pain.

Here are some tips for pain management during the colder months.

Keep Warm

You can counter the cold by keeping warm. Wear extra layers of clothing. Don’t forget to wear gloves to keep your hands warm. Overall, wear thicker and layered clothing. Before the temperature drops further, ensure that your heating system is working well.

And most of all, stay warm by boosting your blood circulation with the help of stretching and exercise. Check with your doctor about the type of exercises you can safely do.

Healthy Diet

Inflammation of joints can also be managed with food that have anti-inflammatory effects. To better manage joint pain and discomfort, include such foods in your diet that includes –

• Omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation– for example, salmon and nuts
• Vitamin K for its pain-alleviating properties– for example, spinach, cabbage, and kale
• Vitamin C to reduce loss of cartilage if you are suffering from arthritis–for example, oranges, red peppers, and tomatoes

Stay Hydrated

Poor hydration can cause muscles to contract and disturb muscle tone. Dehydration can lead to aches and pains. In order to avoid that, you should stay hydrated to prevent winter-related joint pains, muscle cramps, soreness, and lethargy. You should consume about 2 liters, or half a gallon every day. In case you have a kidney condition, talk to your doctor about the quantity of water you can safely consume every day.

Consult your pain management doctor

If you suffer from chronic pain, visit a pain management doctor before it gets colder. Your doctor can accurately diagnose your condition, assess your symptoms and design a complete treatment plan so that you can obtain lasting pain relief.

If you are looking for pain management doctors or specialists, call one of the leading pain management centers in Chicago, Illinois Pain Institute at 800-340-PAIN Today!