Weather and arthritis

The weather here in Chicago has been a roller coaster recently, which means my arthritis symptoms have been, too. When I woke up today with back pain out of nowhere (and some unseasonably cold weather), it got me wondering—what is it about weather changes that makes joint pain act up?

Why does weather cause joint pain?

Unfortunately, there’s not a very clear answer, although scientists have some ideas. The most prominent one is related to barometric pressure (or atmospheric pressure, the force exerted by the atmosphere on Earth, including us). As weather changes, the barometric pressure changes. When the pressure drops, joints can swell, which may increase pain for people with arthritis. (This is because with less pressure being exerted on the joint tissues, it becomes easier for them to expand. The opposite effect is used in compression sleeves, which can lessen swelling and pain.) Drops in barometric pressure often come before storms or when humidity increases.

Cold weather can thicken the fluid in the joints, which makes them feel stiffer. One study found that every 10-degree temperature drop was associated with increased arthritis pain.

Other studies have shown contradictory results. One study showed that high barometric pressure and humidity and low temperature increased arthritis pain. Other studies have found no correlation between weather and joint pain (specifically for osteoarthritis, which most studies focus on). Really, more studies are needed, since many studies are small and limited. Paying attention to how weather affects you might tell you more than studies at this point, because it seems like everyone is different, and it seems that some people are more affected by weather than others.

Another factor to consider is how the weather influences your behavior. If you usually go outside to walk, do work, or exercise but can’t because of the weather, your joints might hurt from lack of activity.

The Arthritis Foundation has a tool that lets you type in your zip code to get a prediction for weather-related pain flares. I’m not sure how accurate it is, but it’s certainly a place to start if you want to know how the weather will affect you.

What can prevent symptoms in bad weather?

Bundle up! I try not to let my fear of looking overdressed prevent me from staying warm. Layers can help keep you warm and able to adjust to changing temperatures. Sometimes I’m the only one out in a sweatshirt on a nice spring day, but the comfort is worth it.

Space heaters, blankets, and warm showers are also important. Last winter was torturous until I got a space heater to warm my desk in my poorly-insulated apartment.

And although bad weather can make inactivity easier, it’s important to find ways to move around indoors. Even walking around inside can make a difference, or you can try something more structured like swimming, yoga, or other fitness classes.

I wish everyone better weather as this summer progresses!

-Bri

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