Why your joints hurt in winter – and what you can do to keep them healthy

The exact link between cold weather and joint pain is not fully understoodjoints

can be caused by a variety of conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, breakdown of the cartilage after an injury, or inflammation of a tendon. But if your joints are stiffer than usual, or if you’ve been experiencing niggles in your fingers and toes, it could be because of the drop in temperature., an orthopaedic surgeon from the University of Chicago who specialises in comprehensive joint health, suffering from achy joints during winter is quite common, but the exact link between cold weather and joint conditions is not fully understood. Some people are just more susceptible to joint pain during winter than others.

To rule out any other conditions, consider your family’s health history. Ask whether any other family members are prone to arthritis and consider your own overall health, age, and weight to determine if you are at risk. Keep track of when the pain occurs. Is it mainly at night, and does it get better with home relief? If you are in consistent pain, if there is any swelling, redness, or fever, or if you are struggling to move, you should consult your doctor.

If you experience pain in your fingers and hands, use topical creams, gels or balms with ingredients such as eucalyptus oil, cinnamon oil, or menthol. These ingredients are known as counterirritants and provide a pleasant warming or cooling effect to the skin to help distract you from the pain. Ask your pharmacists what type of topical ingredient may be best for you as some ingredients such as menthol can cause skin irritation. Read the instructions carefully and only use as directed.

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