Overcoming Winter Aches and Pains

Some people think they can predict the weather because they “feel it in their bones.” Some studies suggest there may be some truth to that.

In 2007, researchers from Tufts University found that both change in barometric pressure and ambient temperature influence severity of pain. Specifically, they found that for every 10-degree drop in ambient temperature, arthritis patients will see a notable increase in joint pain.

Why does the cold cause pain and stiffness?

There is no one explanation for why dropping temperatures affect your joints. Several theories focus on barometric pressure, also known as atmospheric pressure, which cause tendons, muscles, and the surrounding tissues to expand. Given the confined nature of the body, expanding in these areas leads to increased pressure and consequently pain, especially in joints affected by arthritis. However, the jury is still out as to exactly why these external factors impact joint symptoms, and whether or not they cause pain, but it can make symptoms more noticeable. But before we can understand why these factors affect joint pain, it’s important to first understand musculoskeletal pain generally.

What is musculoskeletal pain?

Musculoskeletal pain is pain that affects the muscles, joints, ligaments and tendons, and bones. Musculoskeletal pain can be acute, meaning it is sudden and severe. Or the pain can be chronic (long-lasting). You may have localized pain (in one area of your body), or it may affect your entire body.

What conditions put you at a greater risk for musculoskeletal pain?

Some conditions may increase the risk of this kind of pain. The Cleveland Clinic advises people living with these conditions to take extra care when it comes to environmentally-affected joint pain:

• Arthritis: This condition causes chronic joint inflammation, leading to joint pain and stiffness.
• “Tunnel” syndromes: These conditions cause nerve compression or pinched nerves and can often result from overuse injuries. Examples include carpal, cubital, and tarsal tunnel syndromes.
• Fibromyalgia: This chronic illness causes all-over musculoskeletal pain and fatigue, often in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments.

Working it Out: Tips for Reducing Winter Aches and Pains

• Keep moving (and get professional help if needed). Pain is a protective mechanism to stop you from causing further damage, but that doesn’t mean you should quit moving altogether. Rather, it’s important to continue moving to prevent stiffness and keep muscles strong. Talk to your healthcare providers about physical therapy or doctor-supervised treatments like musculoskeletal rehabilitation that can often improve ability to function, reduce symptoms, and improve well-being.
• Don’t give in to the cold. Don’t let cold weather put you off normal physical activities and errands. Layer up, stay warm, and do daily, gentle stretches that move your joints through their full range of motion. This reduces pressure on your joints, so they are less prone to injury.
• Don’t overdo it. Especially if you’re new to exercise, start slow and don’t be afraid to know your limits. Slowly build up your exercise regimen so it maximizes healing and relief in painful areas.
• Bring on the heat. Apply safety-checked heating pads to painful areas. Heat helps relax your muscles.
• Mind how you feel. Pain isn’t just a physical sensation; it affects you emotionally, too. The American Psychiatric Association explains: “People living with chronic pain are at heightened risk for mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Chronic pain can affect sleep, increase stress levels, and contribute to depression.”

Some people may already feel low during the winter months, so not only can pain deepen a low mood, but the reverse is true, too. Pain researchers, like Yale School of Medicine professor Dr. Nalini Vadivelu, estimate that 30% to 45% of patients with chronic pain experience depression. It’s a vicious circle that will affect the quality of your life. If you are experiencing feelings that increase the impact of physical pain, reach out to your healthcare provider (or ask your health plan for assistance in finding a mental health professional).

When should you consult a doctor?

If you experience any unusual or new symptoms with your joints—such as persistent swelling, redness, difficulty putting pressure on, or using, the joint—it’s a good idea to consult your physician. If you have consistent or severe pain that becomes disabling, seek medical care right away.

We Can Help

If you need help dealing with a chronic, day-to-day musculoskeletal condition, our Customer Experience Advocates team can help you find the right care and keep you on course for a healthy outcome. We are here to help.