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Arthritis is a condition that affects millions of Americans. The pain, inflammation, and stiffness of your joints can make any day miserable, but for those who suffer from it, they swear that winter is the worst.

Something about the cold weather and (lack of) barometric pressure in the air during the wintertime can worsen your arthritis symptoms, but there are ways to combat it. Here are some things you can do to reduce your joint pain during the colder months.

Eat the Right Foods
A well-balanced diet is a key to warding off joint pain, especially in the winter. Make sure to eat plenty of lean protein, vegetables, whole grains, fiber, and foods high in omega-3 fatty acids.

Take Supplements
Over-the-counter supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin have been proven to help relieve arthritis symptoms. Fish oil, vitamin K, and vitamin D supplements are also worth consideration, just consult with your doctor first. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Tylenol and Aleve can also be used to help ease inflammation and pain when it happens.

Stay Physically Active
Many of us tend to hibernate during the cold weather, but staying sedentary will only worsen your joint pain. Physical activity helps lubricate your joints, so make sure to get your daily dose of low-impact exercise such as swimming, biking, or using an elliptical machine.

Water is Your Friend
Make sure to spend plenty of time in water, and get plenty of water in you. Staying hydrated offers nearly endless health benefits, and immersing yourself in warm water for 15 minutes at a time can help ease your joint pain.

If these methods aren’t doing enough to ease your pain, consider scheduling an appointment with the joint specialists at Orthopaedic Specialty Group. With locations in Fairfield, Shelton, and , we are southern Connecticut’s largest and most experienced orthopedic practice. We offer a variety of surgical and nonsurgical treatments to help our clients manage their pain – call (203) 337-2600 to learn more.