08/07/2019
WHY DOES THE RAINY WEATHER MAKE MY KNEE PAIN WORSE?
A good number of people would swear that the feeling of joint pain is an accurate predictor of rainy weather. Mrs Adeola.O 57 , who unfortunately now has arthritis says “ I used to hear old people talk about how they were sure the rains were approaching, by the knee pain they had started to observe”, she adds “ I am now one of those old people!”
Mrs Adeola has bilateral Osteoarthritis (OA), and currently lives with it with the occasional Physio sessions at St Joseph’s, lifestyle modifications, weight loss, exercise, and the occasional over the counter pain relief drug.
When the rainy season comes along, Mrs A is faced with increased difficulty in the management of her OA, Mrs A says “ I suspect the increased pain is as a result of barometric pressure, and i have undoubtedly become more aware of room temperatures, and cold weather in general.
According to a Rheumatologist Dr LIbman, there is truth in the old wives tale... research has shown that in chambers with adjustable barometric pressure, there was an inverse relationship between pain and barometric pressure. That is to say, lower pressure causes an increase in pain.
HOW TO RELIEVE ARTHRITIC RELATED PAIN IN COLD\RAINY WEATHER
Layering
With unpredictable rains in Lagos lately, we advise our patients to be prepared for weather fluctuations, by adding on a few extra layers of clothing e.g scarves , sweaters, shawls, jackets, etc, and remove or add as the weather demands.
Drink more water
Some studies have shown that mild dehydration increases one's' perception of pain
Weight loss
Weight loss is a very important aspect of managing OA, as most weight bearing joints are typically prone to OA. Increasing activity levels, diet and exercise can help with weight loss, and therefore reduce joint degeneration and pain. Giving your joints less weight to bear improves their function.
Indoor exercise
It is understandable that you will prefer to be indoors during the rainy season, but try not to let the weather deter you from being active. We suggest taking long walks at the malls (e.g The palms shopping mall in Lekki, or Circle mall), or using an elliptical bike or a treadmill at home.
Heated pool
Swimming in a heated pool is not only great exercise, but also easy on the weight bearing joints, and soothing to joints affected by OA.
Vitamin D supplements
Lower levels of Vitamin D alter sensitivity to arthritis pain. Unfortunately being indoors isn't helpful with the natural absorption of vitamin D. so an increase of the vitamin in your diet, or via supplements would do a great deal.
Good footwear
With wet grounds during the rainy weather, we advise that you are better protected from slipping and falling. Very supportive shoes, with good friction would greatly reduce the risk of increased damage.
Try Omega-3 fatty acids
Which can be found in fish oil, Omega-3 has been found to reduce inflammation. The Arthritis Foundation suggests 2 daily doses of 2.6g of fish oil for optimum results.
Finally
See you at 21b christ avenue, off admiralty road, Lekki phase 1 to have your OA assessed, with the help of the best physiotherapists, reduce your pain, swelling and stiffness to improve your knee function.
www.stjosephsphysio.com
