Arthritis Awareness: Natural Remedies for Joint Pain as the Weather Cools
As we begin the daydreaming of leaves starting to fall and the air getting that crisp, cool bite, we might look forward to cozy sweaters, pumpkin spice everything, and the upcoming holiday season. But if you’re one of the millions of Canadians who deal with arthritis, you might also be bracing yourself for the not-so-fun part of the season: increased joint pain.
Why does arthritis pain flare up in colder weather,and more importantly, what can you do about it? Let’s dive into the science behind it and look at some natural remedies that can help keep your joints happy all season long.
Why Does Cold Weather Aggravate Arthritis?
Let’s talk about why your joints might be throwing a tantrum when the weather changes. While there’s no conclusive answer, there are a few theories:
Barometric Pressure Changes: Some researchers believe that drops in barometric pressure, which often precede cold weather, can cause tissues in your joints to expand, leading to pain.
Cold Stiffens Joints: Lower temperatures can cause the fluid inside your joints to thicken slightly, making them feel stiffer and more painful.
Less Activity: Let’s face it, when it’s chilly outside, it’s tempting to hunker down under a blanket and skip your usual workout. But less movement can lead to stiffer joints.
Natural Remedies to Keep Joint Pain at Bay
1. Keep Your Joints Warm
It may be cold outside but keep those joints warm! Bundle up in layers, wear warm gloves and socks, and consider wrapping knees for an extra layer of insulation. A warm bath after being outside in the cold can also provide relief.
2. Keep Moving
While it’s tempting to become a couch potato when the temperature drops, staying active is crucial for managing arthritis. Try to keep up with gentle exercises like yoga, swimming, or tai chi to help to keep your joints flexible without putting too much strain on them.
3. Turmeric
This golden spice is a known powerhouse when it comes to reducing inflammation. Sprinkle it in your soups, stews, or enjoy a warm cup of turmeric tea or a golden milk latte. It’s best to pair it with black pepper to help your body absorb it.
4. Collagen
Supplementing with collagen, or enjoying collagen rich foods such as bone broth can help with increasing your body’s own production of collagen. Collagen is like the “cushioning” between our joints and the degeneration of this over time can increase joint pain.
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5. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
These healthy fats have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce joint pain. Enjoy foods rich in omega-3’s, like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds. If you’re not a fan of fish, consider a high-quality fish oil supplement.
6. Ginger
Ginger has great anti-inflammatory benefits. Brew up some warm ginger tea, consider taking ginger supplements or incorporating it into dishes such as stir fry, curries, are soups!
7. Boswellia
Boswellia, also known as Indian frankincense, has been shown to reduce inflammation and pain in people with arthritis. Look for it in capsule form in your local health food store.
8. Acupuncture
This ancient art of sticking needles into specific pressure points in the body can provide relief for some people from the pain and stiffness of arthritis.
If your pain becomes severe or is interfering with your daily life, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider.
Don’t let arthritis put a damper on your autumn plans. By staying warm, moving gently, and incorporating some of these natural remedies into your routine, you can keep your joints feeling good and enjoy all the cozy, seasonal goodness that this time of year has to offer.