Cold, damp weather is well known for aggravating aches and pains. Rheumatoid and arthritic conditions may react badly to winter; what may be merely a stiff joint or a dull ache in summer months can become a shooting pain in cold, damp weather.
Osteoarthritis occurs as a result of 'wear and tear' on joints which causes a degeneration of cartilage at a joint, this cartilage is the protection to the bone and is very important in healthy joints. It can occur at any body joint, but is most commonly found in fingers and hands, hips and the spine. Like all arthritic conditions, it may react to changes in the weather, and just as good weather can ease pain levels, so the onset of wintry weather can cause an increase in discomfort. This intensifies the need to 'warm up' for your day, a few gentle stretches in the morning can make the world of difference as your muscles are more likely to spasm with movement in a cold state. Muscle spasm can happen in any area and cause a lot of pain.
Looking after your body throughout the year is important and even more so in the winter.
Christopher Hillyard (Clinic Director/ Principal Osteopath)
Woodside Osteopathic Clinic, 47A Bancroft, Hitchin, SG5 1LA
01462 452929
www.thewoodsideclinic.co.uk