The combination of arthritis and winter weather can add up to plenty of discomfort for people in cold-weather climates. Frigid weather makes it tempting to sit in front of the fireplace or wrapped in blankets indoors, rather than venturing out into blustery wind, rain or snow to exercise. To keep arthritis pain in check and maintain your health, however, follow these tips:
- Suit up properly: Stay warm outside and in by dressing in layers. This is the time to get out warm leggings and tights to wear beneath your other clothing to preserve body heat.
- Get creative with exercise: You can get lots of good exercise while indoors in winter—and you should. Being sedentary can make arthritis pain worse. Try mall-walking on your own or with friends and/or use a no-impact elliptical exercise machine or a treadmill at home or at the gym.
- Go swimming: A heated swimming pool can do wonders to keep you in shape and soothe sore joints. Take warm baths often to make your winter more enjoyable and relaxing, too. Don’t jump out of the bath into the cold; let your body temperature adjust gradually.
- Supplement to make up for less sun exposure: Add more vitamin D-rich foods to your diet or take supplements in winter.
- Stay on solid footing: When venturing outside, make sure you don’t slip and fall. Check the treads on your shoes (and their fit) before going outdoors. If treads are worn, choose other shoes or sturdy boots. Avoid patches of ice whenever possible.
- Other supplements may help: Try a glucosamine-chondroitin herbal supplement and/or fish oil, provided that your doctor has no objection. Ask you physician about bleeding risks with fish oil and other interactions. These supplements may help you move more freely with less pain and fight inflammation.
- Alternative medicine options: Soothe and dissipate muscle cramps with massage and/or acupuncture treatments. The latter may require several treatments before you can evaluate its effectiveness.
For medical supplies to help reduce arthritis pain this winter, contact Mar-J Medical Supply. Order online nationwide or visit our store in Boca Raton.
Image via Shutterstock.com
Recent Comments