When we consider how the weather affects joint pain and stiffness, most of us assume it’s only cool, damp days that cause flare-ups.
In some people with chronic conditions, however, it’s the long hot days of summer that cause joint pain to worsen. This is particularly so for some who suffer from arthritis or fibromyalgia. For example, in one study of older people with osteoarthritis, nearly 5% reported a flare-up of joint pain in hot weather.
Our osteopath explains why this is the case, and offers some tips to support you to stay mobile and enjoy the hot weather.
Why does joint pain flare in hot weather?
We know that muscles, bones and tendons grow and shrink in response to atmospheric changes. We also see that temperature sensitivity is a common symptom of conditions such as fibromyalgia, triggering pain flare-ups.
It’s as yet unclear as to how exactly barometric pressure (which can be very high in extremely hot weather) affects joint pain. But it’s possible that along with the expansion and contraction of connective tissue and of bones, extreme hot weather may impact the pressure of the fluid that oils your joints, or create increased nerve sensitivity.
Dehydration may also play a part – when we don’t drink enough, we don’t create enough synovial fluid. This fluid nourishes and protects our joints and reduces friction. Water is also crucial for your cartilage, making up between 65-80% of this tissue, which supports your bones to move smoothly over each other. Drinking enough water in hot weather will help to reduce joint inflammation, through regeneration and lubrication of these tissues.
Osteopathy can help you manage joint pain
Our osteopaths are well equipped to help you manage joint pain flare-ups. Using techniques adapted to each individual, such as gentle articulation, mobilisation and massage, an osteopath will help you reduce pain and stiffness.
Exercise advice will be given as it’s important to stay active to reduce joint pain. Each person is different, so any advice given will be tailored to you and your needs.
All osteopaths treat the body as a whole. During your consultation, our osteopaths will assess the mobility of all your joints and muscles, and offer advice on diet, posture and lifestyle changes to help you stay pain-free.
Three gentle exercises for joint pain
Ankle pain
Sit on the floor with your legs stretched out in front of you. Fold a towel lengthwise and wrap around the soles of your feet. Gently flex your feet and toes upward. If this is too much on your quadriceps, you may bend your knees slightly. Hold for 10 seconds and repeat up to 10 times.
Knee pain
Lie on your back with one leg bent and the other straight. Tighten the muscles of the straightened leg and lift your leg to the level of your other knee. Slowly lower. Perform 10 repetitions, and then switch legs. Repeat two more times and practice at least once daily.
Hip pain
Lie on your back with both legs straight. Slowly pull one knee toward chest with both hands until you feel a gentle stretch in your buttock. Hold for 30 to 60 seconds. Keep stomach muscles tightened and slowly lower leg back down. Repeat with other leg. Practice two to four times daily.
Don’t suffer joint pain in silence. Book your appointment with one of our osteopaths today, via our webpageÂ
