Cold Weather and Sore Joints: How to Manage Joint Pain and Sore Muscles This Season

Joint pain may occur in the hands, feet, knees, hips, and spine. The pain may range from slightly aching to severe, burning sensations. Many factors contribute to joint pain, such as weight, injuries, medical conditions, and age. Once individuals reach middle age, they may start to feel the wear and tear on their joints, and by the time they become seniors, joint pain often becomes a problem. Osteoarthritis represents a form of arthritis and the most common cause of joint pain among seniors.

Joint pain often worsens in the winter due to the cold temperature and the fall in barometric pressure. The cold weather may increase the synovial fluid that serves as the joint's shock absorber. This increase in fluid makes the joints stiffer and sensitive to pain. The drop in barometric pressure causes joints to expand, resulting in pain. However, at Senior Helpers of Lexington, we know a healthy lifestyle and intelligent pain management can help seniors control osteoarthritis and other forms of joint pain so it doesn't interfere with their lifestyle.

Nutrition Tips to Control Inflammation

Eating foods that reduce inflammation helps control joint pain and many other ailments. Some of the best food to fight joint pain include:

1. Fish rich in Omega 3s, such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel
2. Soy also contains significant amounts of omega-3s and protein. Food such as tofu and edamame contain soy.
3. Green tea contains antioxidants and polyphenols that slow the deterioration of cartilage.
4. Fresh fruits and vegetables promote good health and may help with joint pain.

Worst Foods for Arthritis and Inflammation

1. Sugar may taste good, but it contributes to many health problems. Studies indicate that individuals who drink soft drinks are more likely to suffer from arthritis.
2. Processed foods with artificial colors and preservatives also cause inflammation.
3. Red meat, including beef, pork, and lamb, may contribute to inflammation.

What Are the Best Physical Activities for Joint Pain?

When waking up with sore, achy joints, a typical reaction involves staying in bed, hoping the pain will subside. But it turns out that moving around is the best thing for painful arthritic joints. Of course, rest is essential, but throughout the day, it's important to stretch and move your joints. Other lifestyle choices that help with joint pain include not smoking and maintaining a healthy weight.

Exercises Recommended for Seniors to Control Joint Pain:

• Yoga
• Low-impact aerobics
• Water aerobics
• Swimming
• Stretching exercises
• Walking
• Cycling

Exercises to Avoid for Seniors Suffering from Arthritis or Joint Pain:

• Running
• High-impact aerobics
• Competitive tennis
• Anything with high-impact repetitive motions

Pain Relief for Joint Pain

Some over-the-counter medications that relieve joint pain include:

1. Acetaminophen-Tylenol
2. Ibuprofen-Advil
3. Naproxen Sodium- Aleve

It's a good idea to discuss which OTC options make the most sense regarding other medical conditions or interference with prescribed medications.

Getting adequate Vitamin D and Calcium also plays an important role in maintaining healthy joints.

Other things that may help joint pain include medicinal creams and pain patches such as Icy Hot. Jacuzzis and therapeutic massages also offer significant relief for sore joints and muscles.

We Can Help

Senior Helpers of Lexington, Kentucky, serves the communities of Lexington, Georgetown, Nicholasville, and Shelbyville. If you need help controlling joint or arthritis pain for a senior loved one, we encourage you to contact us. Please contact us here for information on how our in-home senior service will make a difference in your life.