As we transition into autumn and temperatures inevitably begin to drop, the colder weather will be sure to affect everyone differently. For those with arthritis, this can mean an exacerbation of symptoms with more pain and stiffness from the cold.

Many people with arthritis stand firmly by the claim that pain in their joints can be a predictor of cold or rainy weather. With the incoming chilliness of fall, these people are likely to experience this sensation in varying degrees, making getting out of bed in the morning and performing many daily activities much more difficult.

Despite the first-hand experiences of so many arthritis patients, there is very little research to actually support the concept that cold weather can impact the course of arthritis. A leading theory on the mechanisms at work states that as the weather changes and pressure drops, the tissues surrounding joints expands slightly and puts extra pressure on joints, which can lead to pain. Some medical professionals instead suggest there is no direct biological connection – that the cold weather causes people to shiver, tighten up and not exercise as much, which can collectively lead to an aggravation of arthritis symptoms.

Whatever the specific cause, there’s no denying that these changes in weather can have a significant impact on certain people with arthritis and prevent them from going about their daily lives as they normally would. Fear of movement and reducing activity, unfortunately, can have an additional negative effect and lead to a vicious cycle of inactivity.

That’s where CAM Physical Therapy and Wellness Services LLC come in. Our physical therapists will create a treatment program and offer exercise advice to keep patients moving properly and reduce the burden of arthritis symptoms. Here’s how we can help patients manage their arthritis in the fall and thereafter:

• Teach patients techniques to help them perform daily activities with the best possible posture and body movements to reduce painful actions
• Perform manual techniques to stretch out and move stiff joints
• Prescribe muscle-strengthening exercises to build up joints that have been weakened by damage or inflammation from arthritis
• Help create a regular exercise plan to stay active throughout the colder months, encouraging exercise of affected joints before going outdoors
• Encourage warm-water exercise, which is especially helpful this time of year to relieve stiffness with the warmth and buoyancy of the water
• Instruct on the use heating pads and warming agents for painful joints

Physical therapy and regular exercise are some of the best ways to stave off any problems that might come about in arthritis patients from the cold weather, and CAM is glad to help anyone experiencing problems. Call 301-853-0093 to schedule an appointment at any of our three locations in Laurel, Hyattsville or Glenn Dale/Bowie, MD, or click here or here for more information.