If you have osteoarthritis or other painful conditions that affect your mobility, winter can be a challenging time. The combination of freezing temperatures, treacherous surfaces and fewer opportunities to get outside for exercise means some people experience a worsening of symptoms during the winter months and this may also impact your mental and emotional health. Maybe your symptoms have already increased due to delays in getting treatment as a result of the pandemic, in which case this winter may be particularly challenging and although many of us are looking forward to the arrival of spring, it is not here yet.
It’s important for all of us to look after our health and wellbeing over winter but this is particularly important if you have a chronic condition like osteoarthritis. Here are some of the things we recommend to our patients at W27…
- Wear the right clothes – This may sound obvious but it’s really important to choose clothes that are warm so you can protect damaged joints. Layering up with several thinner layers is more effective than a single thick layer and allows you to add or remove clothing in response to changes in temperature. Be sure to wear sturdy footwear with a good grip particularly when it’s icy or wet.
- Keep mobile – When it’s cold and wet outside it can be tempting to stay indoors on the sofa. But joints need exercise to stay healthy and flexible and this is particularly important if you have a condition like osteoarthritis. If you can, get out in the fresh air for a walk as this is beneficial both for your joints and for your overall feelings of wellbeing. Exercising indoors – such as swimming, yoga or pilates – is also beneficial and can help to lubricate your joints.
- Stay hydrated – Even becoming slightly dehydrated can increase sensitivity to pain so you need to stay well hydrated by drinking enough water. If you are exercising this is especially important.
- Maintain a healthy body weight – If you are overweight this increases the pressure on your joints, particularly knee and hip joints. If they are already damaged this can increase pain and loss of mobility. If you need support to lose weight, talk to your doctor.
- Eat a healthy diet – Hot nourishing meals and warm drinks help you to stay warm as well as improving your overall health and wellbeing. Studies have shown a link between poor nutrition and an increased risk of complications after surgery so if you are waiting for joint replacement surgery it is particularly important to eat a healthy, balanced diet rich in fresh fruit and vegetables. Alcohol lowers your body temperature and can increase your risk of falls so it is advisable to avoid it before going outside.
- Take painkilling medication – Taking painkillers and anti-inflammatories can help you to manage pain if it is exacerbated by the cold weather. It’s also important to get the right amount of sleep as chronic pain can be very tiring and to heat your home to at least 18 degrees.
- Take supplements – It may help to take certain supplements such as Vitamin D, which helps to build immunity and protect against the pain of arthritis. Fish oil may also be beneficial as it contains Omega-3 fatty acids which help to reduce inflammation, however, make sure you talk to your doctor as it can increase the risk of bruising or bleeding. Some people also appear to gain benefits from taking Glucosamine-Chondroitin, although these are not scientifically proven.
- Have a massage – As well as being relaxing, regular massage can help to ease the pain of stiff joints and improve flexibility.
- Follow the latest Covid guidelines – If you are scheduled to go into hospital, you will be given detailed instructions on what to do before your treatment and while you are in the hospital to protect yourself and other people against covid. It is important that you follow this.
Contact us for more advice about how to manage pain and stay safe and well this winter if you are living with a chronic condition.
If you have suffered a sporting injury, whether due to an accident or as a result of long-term damage, contact W27 for specialist advice and diagnosis.
SPORTS INJURY TREATMENT | MANCHESTER, LONDON, CHESHIRE + MORE
W27 provides fast, accurate diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal symptoms and conditions using the latest state-of-the-art imaging facilities.
For your appointment there is a choice of locations:
The OrthTeam Centre Ohm Building – 168 Barlow Moor Road, Manchester, M20 2AF
Euxton Hall Hospital – Wigan Road, Euxton, Chorley, PR7 6DY
MedSerena Upright MRI Centre Manchester – 26-28 The Boulevard, Manchester, M20 2EU
The John Charnley Wing, Wrightington Hospital – Hall Lane, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9EP
The Spire Manchester – 170 Barlow Moor Road, Didsbury, Manchester, M20 2AF
MedSerena Upright MRI Centre London – 114a Cromwell Road, Kensington, London, SW7 4ES
HCA The Wilmslow Hospital – 52 Alderley Road, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 1NY
Information about our Fees can be found here.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss your options with a specialist, please contact the team to book an initial consultation.
