Managing Arthritis in the Winter

Does it seem like your joint pain heats up when the weather cools down? You're not alone. "Many people believe their arthritis gets worse during certain types of weather," says Richard Haddad, M.D., of Riverview Medical Center. "For instance, some people with arthritis say they feel more fatigue during the colder months."

As the temperature drops, it's important to keep managing your arthritis. Your joints don't take the season off, and actively managing your joint pain helps prevent it from getting worse — whatever the weather.

Here are some ways to keep up your commitment while the mercury falls.

Keep Moving
Even if it's chilly outside, it's important to stay active. "Daily walking, swimming, or other moderate exercise can help control arthritis symptoms like pain," says Dr. Haddad. Consider these ideas:

• Join a mall walkers group or walk an indoor shopping center on your own.



• Take an aquatic exercise class at a heated indoor pool.



• If you're braving the cold blasts outside, wear layers made of silk, fleece, wool, or down. This helps you trap your body heat. And don't forget the hat and gloves.



• Reward yourself with a warm bath after your workout. Think of it as a gift to your muscles and joints!

Warm Up to Target Pain
If pain from sore joints is an issue, seek the heat. Adding warmth to a tender joint can increase blood flow to the area and help reduce pain and stiffness. Try applying warm towels or hot packs to a sore wrist, shoulder, or neck. "Cold packs can help, too, for inflamed joints or muscles," notes Dr. Haddad. "Your doctor may recommend using both."

Another suggestion to warm you up this winter is to book a massage. Light kneading and massaging strokes can draw blood into a sore area to tame pain. Just be sure to tell your licensed or certified massage therapist that you have arthritis.

Stay in Summ er Shape
Set a goal now to avoid winter weight gain. Adding pounds can be bad for weight-bearing joints like the knees, so try to stay in shape.

One weight-control tip is to watch your portions. If you're craving a warm, comforting bowl of pasta, remember that a serving is only onehalf cup. Check labels and recipes for serving sizes, and serve yourself the right portions.

Avoid the Hazards of Winter
Joint injuries actually can lead to arthritis. "Icy sidewalks are a huge hazard. You might slip and fall," says Dr. Haddad. "Wear boots with nonskid soles to reduce your risk of falling."

Another winter hazard is snowfall. If you have to shovel, stretch your major muscles before you dig in. Try marching in place and moving your shoulders in circles. Use a shovel with a plastic blade, which is lighter than metal. As you're shoveling, take plenty of breaks. Finish up with a sprinkling of rock salt to melt ice on walkways.

About The Doctor

Haddad, Richard H., M.D. Board certified in Internal Medicine Red Bank, NJ  07701 (732) 842-3600