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For those with arthritis, every day can be a challenge to manage the pain, stiffness, and swelling associated with the condition. Unfortunately, the cold and icy weather during the winter can make managing arthritis symptoms even more difficult. 

From the team at the Orthopaedic Specialty Group, here are some tips to make managing arthritis pain in winter easier:

Bundle Up

Keeping your body and joints warm during winter is essential to help minimize pain and swelling. If you go outdoors or if it’s cold indoors, be sure to bundle up with cozy gloves, warm boots, a hat, scarf, and a thick jacket. When you need extra warmth on your joints, try using a hot water bottle placed on your affected joints. 

Exercise Indoors

Regular exercise is so important to keep arthritis symptoms at bay and maintain strong muscles, but the cold weather can be too harsh on the joints. Find new and engaging exercises you can do indoors to stay fit and flexible, such as yoga, walking, stair climbing, and stretching. Just make sure not to do any exercises that will stress and put too much pressure on your arthritic joints. 

Maintain a Healthy Diet

A healthy, balanced diet is an important factor in managing arthritis symptoms, but that can be hard during the winter, especially around the holidays. Make sure to continue incorporating plenty of vitamin-rich fruits, vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, and healthy fats in your diet. Also, try eating more of these anti-inflammatory foods!

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is important for everyone, especially those with arthritis, to boost your immune system and help your body function properly. Since it’s cold out, it’s common that people don’t drink as much since they aren’t drinking to replenish after sweating or to cool off. 

Maintain Your Vitamin D Levels

Studies have shown that those experiencing more serious pain levels in their joints also have lower vitamin D levels. Vitamin D, also referred to as the sunshine vitamin, which helps maintain a strong immune system, is produced when your body absorbs sunlight or through food. Since most people get much less sun time in the winter, it’s important to ensure you get enough vitamin D through your food or by taking supplements. 

Listen To Your Body

Don’t ignore your body’s signals to take it slower and rest. If you are feeling more in pain or stiffer than usual, take this as a sign you need to relax and focus on treating your symptoms more. Don’t engage in any activities that you think will aggravate your joints.  

Seek Help and Guidance When Needed

Don’t be afraid to seek advice and support from the loved ones in your life when you need it. As well, consult with your doctor for help getting appropriate treatment and managing your arthritis symptoms during winter and all year long. 

For comprehensive arthritis treatment, contact the Orthopaedic Specialty Group!

It’s crucial to seek expert medical treatment if you struggle with problems or pain associated with your bones or joints. Give the professionals at Orthopaedic Specialty Group a call at (203) 337-2600, and let us know how we can help you! Don’t let that pain hold you back from living your life. Your health and safety are our top priority.