The groundhog may not have seen his shadow, but chilly winter weather seems to be hanging on regardless of what Punxsutawney Phil predicted. What is osteoarthritis, and why does the weather seem to affect it? We’re going to answer those questions and provide you with some tips for relieving your osteoarthritic pain.
First, we need to take a moment to discuss what osteoarthritis is. It is a degenerative joint condition that aflicts 27 million people in the US alone. It commonly affects the lower back, hips, neck, knees, and smaller joints in the hands and feet. OA results in the breakdown of cartilage that serves as a cushion between the bones. Without this cartilage, the results are inflammation and pain.
Recent research shows that it is not necessarily the cold or snow that increases symptoms so much as changes in barometric pressure. What is this the case? When barometric pressure is higher, it presses on the body from the outside. As a result, there is no room for tissue expansion and inflammation. When this pressure drops, even a little, there is suddenly room for expansion. It doesn’t take much swelling to increase discomfort due to OA significantly.
There are a number of ways to go on the offensive and keep osteoarthritic pain at bay in the winter.
Dr. Ward is always here to help out when winter has got you down. You can call (703)672-1661 to schedule an appointment today, or you can request an appointment online.
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