Joint Health
The big picture: Krystal Martin, Physician Assistant says "...yes, some people with osteoarthritis can experience more joint pains during the winter months!"
In the news: People with the most common form of arthritis can experience more joint pain during Minnesota winters.
The key point here is this: You can take steps to ensure that you have less joint pain during the winter months. Among them, hand exercises and warmth can make a difference in reducing your joint pain.
Did you know that 20.3% of the adults living in Olmsted County have arthritis?
Looking to improve your health?
Doctor's Insight about Arthritis, Joint Pain, and Winter
The big picture: "Don't be surprised if your doctor recommends an office-based treatment session with paraffin wax. Paraffin wax is particularly effective in reducing pain and loosening up hand and finger joints. This improves mobility and overall comfort in movement. Also, keep in mind, there're many types of arthritis. Having knowledge about your condition is important." Dr. Puja Uppal, Family Medicine.
Kaiser Permanente has a great resource for ways to use Paraffin Wax for arthritis. (Visit Here)
Next Steps: Talk to your doctor about your increasing joint pain during the winter months. Starting or maintaining a physical exercise routine is one of the best steps you can take to ensure less pain.
Did you know that unmanaged arthritis is one reason why many people have to quit their jobs? A staggering 8 million working-age adults report that they're experiencing limitations at work due to arthritis!
In Olmsted County, 7.2% of the adults report that they aren't in good physical health. And, 17.1% of you state that you have NO leisure time for physical activity. Both of these variables can affect how well you manage your arthritis.
What they're saying:
"There is a lot of research showing that if you increase your sedentary behaviors, you tend to get an increase in pain, especially chronic pain. And, of course, joint pain is one of those symptoms." Tamara King, Ph.D (Interview Source)
"With more than 100 forms, arthritis is far from simple. The most common types are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid, psoriatic and gout, and although they share a common symptom, their causes can vary." (Northwestern Medicine)
Source:
Cedars Sinai published a comprehensive article: Why is Arthritis Worse in the Winter? (Read it Here)
Arthritis Stats: (CDC)
Almost 60 Million Americans have arthritis.
Almost 30 Million working-age adults have arthritis.
9.3% of Olmsted County residents rate their health "fair or poor."
The Health Standard Newswire
