The autumn months and winter -with the adverse combo of low temperatures y high humidity– are absolutely disadvantageous for people with osteoarthritis.
To get out of this state, the Spanish doctor specializing in older adults Miryam Piqueras It focuses on the triggering reasons and a necessary adjustment in lifestyle.
It happens that, as a note on the Efe Salud site explains, during the cold times People who have this condition notice a worsening of symptoms. This is especially seen in a greater rigidity when getting up or pain when starting the movement. The next steps are the total loss of activity and cycles of discomfort that do not subside.
The reason is that “the temperature and humidity changes influence how joints they manage the inflammation and the nervous system interprets pain, explains the rheumatologist María Andreina Terán from the Sanitas Virgen del Mar University Hospital.
“At this time of year, it is observed in people with osteoarthritis lower elasticity of the tissues and a more intense perception of the discomfort“adds the doctor.
The ailments reach such a point that habitual efforts, such as climbing stairs or walking down the street, can trigger the pain and take to a immobility.
«The climate invites us to stay at home and sit for longer. In patients with joint painespecially in the older population, this implies less muscle stability and more rigidity”, completes Terán.
How to relieve winter symptoms of osteoarthritis
The way out: “Break this vicious circle with daily adjustments to bad habits,” he summarizes. Miryam Piqueras.
The proposed keys?
Protect exposed joints
Latest generation lightweight thermal clothing, gloves and wool socks help maintain a stable temperature on hands, knees and feet. The unbeatable rule: if joints They stay warm, move more easily, and are less stiff to walk on.
Maintain a daily movement routine at home
The mini routines of joint mobility exercises in arms and legs and rearranging the spine during the day will prevent immobility that arises after too many hours in a row in a sitting position. “Consistency is often more effective than marked efforts,” adds Piqueras.
Do a little warm-up before going out
A few minutes of sequences mobility of shoulders, hips and knees They will prepare the muscles and joints to face the ambient temperature. In addition, they will lead to reducing the sensation of tightness and the discomfort that arises when starting movement.
Adapt effort to pain level
On days of intense cold and high humidity, the key will be to alternate periods of activity with short rest breaks. The objective is to continue moving without triggering intense and sustained pain.
“The goal is often not to eliminate pain if not make it work manageable y compatible with an active life,” concludes Piqueras.
