Christmas is just around the corner, and soon a new year will dawn. While there is plenty to cheer about and celebrate, the season may not be as joyful for those dealing with arthritis in their joints. The drop in temperatures during winter can lead to the constriction of blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the extremities and causing stiffness in the soft tissues around the joints. Cold weather tends to slow down muscle activity, making one feel lazy and sluggish.
As a result, arthritic joints may experience more pain, and muscles may cramp more frequently in the winter months. Let’s bid farewell to stiff joints and muscle cramps this winter with these tips from Dr Thadi Mohan, Consultant, Department of Orthopaedics, Amrita Hospital, Kochi.
- Start a regular workout.Download a walking app (step counter or pedometer) on your mobile device and walk at least 5,000 steps a day. Aim to reach 10,000 steps eventually.Any physical activity done consistently is good for the body. It helps in the production of synovial fluid, the natural lubrication for our joints. Walking or jogging for 30 minutes every day (or 4-6 times a week) is a wonderful way to stay fit. The ideal speed for walking or jogging should be the speed at which one can hold a conversation.
If the weather is not conducive to going outside, choose a 10-meter stretch of clear space indoors to walk up and down several times and make up the steps for the day.
Wishing you a winter ahead filled with good health and freedom from pain.
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