As the world outside transforms into a glistening wonderland of frost-kissed landscapes and cozy gatherings by the fireplace, there’s no denying the charm of winter.
And while winter may be appealing to some, it also casts a shadow – quite literally – over our lives. It gets dark & dreary as night falls sooner and temperatures drop drastically.
For those dealing with arthritis, the winter blues can seem more challenging than ever. But here’s the thing – even if you don’t like winter right now, you can absolutely warm up to it.
In this blog, we’ll discuss how you can embrace the coziness of winter while managing the cold realities of arthritis.
1. Stay warm & layer up!
The best way to manage arthritis-related pain? Keep those achy joints warm. Make sure you invest in warm sweaters, layered clothing, and thermal underwear. Quality scarves, hats, and gloves can go a long way in protecting you from the winter season. The benefit of layering up is that if you start feeling too warm, you can gradually remove these layers.
Another way to find relief from the chills is to swim in a heated pool or rest your joints & muscles in a soothing hot tub.
2. Focus on your diet
A well-balanced diet can play a significant role in managing arthritis symptoms, especially during the winter when joint pain and stiffness is super obvious. So what’s a dietary approach that can help arthritis patients in winter?
Focus on anti-inflammatory foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids as inflammation is a key contributor to arthritis pain. These include fatty fish, walnuts, spinach, broccoli, and eggs – all packed with protein, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Fiber-rich foods and arthritis supplements containing vitamin D, curcumin, and collagen powder can also work to reduce joint pain and stiffness. It’s important to approach supplements like collagen powder and curcumin with caution. Consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
3. Keep your home as warm as possible
Aim for a comfortable temperature between 18°C and 21°C. You can go higher… but that may significantly add to your electricity bills. To stay warm without cranking up the heat, consider investing in winter blankets, hot water bottles, and thick curtains for more insulation.
A warm and cozy living space not only provides physical comfort but also relaxes muscles, improves blood circulation, and reduces joint swelling. The increased mobility and reduced swelling can significantly reduce the risk of cold-related complications.
4. Stop stressing out
While no studies confirm that stress worsens arthritis symptoms, it may make things worse… You see, when we’re stressed out, we tend to overdo things – running around for errands, going all out in the kitchen, and dealing with the mental whirlwind. It may even cause you to subconsciously tighten your bodies or grind your teeth.
Make sure you try out some relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or even some low-impact yoga to dial down the stress and give your joints a breather.
5. Speak up!
Here’s the deal – if you’re in more pain than usual, DON’T keep it to yourself. Talk it out with your family or doctor, or visit your nearest arthritis clinic for a more detailed diagnosis.
Winter blues can really mess up your mood. Sharing what’s going on can really help with your mental health & well-being. And here’s the bonus – it helps your friends and loved ones understand what you’re dealing with. So don’t hesitate to open up and let them in on what’s happening.
You’re not alone in this journey!
If you’re dealing with arthritis or think you might be, you’re not alone. There are around 50 million people in the U.S. going through something similar. But guess what? You don’t have to face it all by yourself. CAC Wellness has your back in the fight against arthritis and joint & muscle discomfort.
Remember: you’ve got a team in your corner to support you through this journey. Today & always!