Seasonal Changes and Arthritis: How to Handle Fall & Winter Flare-Ups
As the vibrant colours of summer fade and the crisp air of autumn settles in, many people with arthritis notice an uptick in joint pain and stiffness. The change in weather can bring challenges, especially for those already managing the discomfort and limitations of arthritis. Understanding why these seasonal changes impact your joints, knowing how to manage flare-ups and having support can make a big difference in how you feel during these cooler months.
Why Does Arthritis Flare Up in the Fall?
There are a few reasons why arthritis symptoms often worsen during the cooler months:
Temperature Drops: Cold weather can cause muscles and joints to stiffen, making movement more uncomfortable. The body naturally conserves heat by sending more blood to internal organs, which reduces blood flow to extremities like hands and knees, leading to increased stiffness.
Barometric Pressure Changes: Changes in barometric pressure, which often occur before cold fronts or storms, can lead to swelling in joints. People with arthritis are particularly sensitive to these shifts.
Decreased Activity Levels: As the weather gets colder, many people tend to be less active. Lack of movement can cause joints to become stiff, making arthritis symptoms more noticeable.
How to Manage Arthritis During Fall Flare-Ups
While the changing seasons can exacerbate arthritis symptoms, there are several ways to help manage the discomfort and continue feeling your best through the fall months:
Stay Active: Staying physically active is essential for managing arthritis. Gentle exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga can help keep your joints flexible and reduce stiffness. On colder days, try indoor activities like stretching routines, which promote circulation and relieve tension in the joints.
Keep Warm: Dress in layers and keep your joints warm to help combat the effects of cold weather. Wearing gloves, using heated blankets, or applying heat packs to sore joints can alleviate stiffness and reduce pain. Warm baths or showers can also be incredibly soothing for painful joints.
Consider Complementary Therapies: At the Golden Wellness Hub, we offer several therapies that can help alleviate arthritis symptoms during seasonal changes:
Acupuncture: Known for its ability to reduce inflammation and pain, acupuncture can help you manage joint discomfort and improve overall circulation, making it an excellent choice during fall flare-ups.
Energy Healing: A complementary therapy that addresses the physical, mental and emotional aspects of arthritis, energy healing can help reduce inflammation, and provide pain relief and relaxation while supporting your overall well-being.
Osteopathy: Osteopathic manual therapy focuses on the body’s structure, improving mobility and relieving tension in affected areas. It helps enhance blood flow and relieve stiffness, which can make a significant difference as the weather cools.
Bioflex Laser Therapy: A cutting-edge treatment, Bioflex laser therapy helps reduce inflammation, promotes healing, and provides pain relief—ideal for managing arthritis symptoms during the fall months.
Stay Hydrated Staying hydrated is just as important in the cooler months as it is in the summer. Dehydration can make joint pain worse, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Consider herbal teas and warm beverages to keep you warm and hydrated.
Listen to Your Body Seasonal changes can be tough, and it’s essential to listen to your body and give it the care it needs. Rest when you need to, and be graceful with yourself if you’re feeling particularly stiff or sore. Regular self-care practices, like meditation, gentle stretching, mindful breathing and practices, can help reduce stress and alleviate pain.
calming the nervous system
In addition to physical therapies, managing stress is crucial when dealing with arthritis flare-ups. Arthritis is essentially an inflammatory response, and inflammation is often triggered or worsened by stress. By calming the nervous system and reducing overall stress levels, you can also reduce the severity of your arthritis symptoms. At the Golden Wellness Hub, we offer mental health support, emotional healing, breathwork and trauma-release therapies that can help you manage the emotional toll of chronic pain. Addressing the mind-body connection is key to reducing inflammation and enhancing your overall well-being during the fall season.
When to Seek Additional Help
If you’re finding that your arthritis symptoms are becoming unmanageable despite your efforts, it may be time to seek additional help. Professional therapies like those offered at the Golden Wellness Hub can offer significant relief and improve your quality of life during tough seasonal transitions. Don’t hesitate to book an appointment with us at the Golden Wellness Hub to explore the best options for your needs. If you aren’t sure where to start, send us an email at info@goldenwellnesshub.com and we will give you all the info you need to support you in the way that will feel best to you.