The Effects of Cold Weather on Your Bones and Joints

When the weather gets cold, you know that people always tend to complain about having stiff joints. While most will just attribute it to the cold, what’s really happening? What is the connection between the cold and our bodies? We will discuss the effects that the cold has on your joints and bones, as well as what you can do to prevent it.

Expert Opinion by Dr Raman Kant Aggarwal:

Dr Raman Kant Aggarwal is one of the most prominent orthopaedic surgeons in North India. He has been treating different types of orthopaedic illnesses for quite a long time now. He himself mentions that falling temperatures can greatly affect our muscular and skeletal systems; in this case, the pain and discomfort will also rise in that region.

What is the impact of cold weather on our bodies?

1. An increase in joint stiffness: The cause behind the stiffening of the joints during cold weather conditions is that the synovial fluid in the joints becomes thick. This fluid is the same that lubricates the joints. If the fluid becomes thick, then there would be stiffness and fewer movements in the joints. This would make them difficult to move with free joints.

2. An increase in the symptoms of arthritis: The patient who has arthritis must be informed that low temperatures increase pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints.

3. Cold temperatures can cause joints to be more inflamed: The cold also can kill bacteria in the body and can cause the immune system to overreact as well.

4. Muscle Tightness: The cold weather can make our muscles contract and become tight, thus increasing the overall stiffness and discomfort of our bones and joints. Cold muscles can also be considered vulnerable to injuries.

Here are the ways to maintain joint and bone health from the cold temperature:

1) Get Moving: Regardless of the weather conditions, exercising and moving around can be very beneficial to the joints. One can exercise indoors if the weather is not favourable. Even a short and properly clothed walk would work.

2) Layer Up: The most important thing about staying warm is layering. This is what keeps you warm and prevents your muscles from stiffening. For joint pain relief, you can make use of a heating pad.

3) Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps maintain a healthy fluid in the joints. Dehydration will worsen stiffness and pain in joints.

4) Eat Well: Healthy eating is extremely important when it comes to having healthy joints. Eating foods high in omega-3 fatty acids Regular foods high in antioxidants will decrease inflammation and improve your joint function.

Through the knowledge of Dr Raman Kant Aggarwal, orthopaedic surgeon, and his treatments for protecting the system of bones and joints, the effects of the cold on our body system can be minimised. One of the most important aspects in connection with the proper care of bones and joints is the need for physical activity, due to the fact that bones and joints need to be constantly stimulated.Keeping yourself warm , drinking enough water and having a balanced diet are other factors that contribute to the overall health of bones and joints, especially during winter.
You can actually get to the point of not feeling winter's impact on the health of your bones and joints by adopting the tips that we shared with you. By being proactive, warm, and active, you will get the best results in keeping your bones and joints in the best shape possible.