Why Joints Hurt
"Why do my joints hurt in the cold?" is a question that is frequently asked.
Although there is a widespread belief that cold weather causes rheumatic diseases, the reality is that low temperatures only affect the perception or sensation of pain in people who already have an underlying joint condition.
Joint Pain
Joint pain originates from various types of injuries or medical conditions and can be linked to multiple health issues, such as:
- Arthritis
- Bursitis
- Muscle pain
- Sprains
- Fractures
- Gout
- Osteomyelitis
- Tendinitis
Joint pain can manifest as discomfort or inflammation and can occur in any part of a joint, including the cartilage, ligaments, tendons, muscles, or even the bone.
Its intensity can range from mild—causing discomfort only after specific activities—to severe, resulting in limited and very painful movement.
The link between joint pain and cold or low temperatures occurs because our muscles and tendons contract in response to changes in barometric pressure. This causes joint stiffness and, consequently, pain when moving; this is why people often wonder why their joints hurt in the cold.
What Helps Relieve Joint Pain?
Here are some steps you can take to manage and prevent joint pain:
- Stay active and exercise regularly.
- Get enough sleep.
- Maintain good posture while walking, sitting, or lying down.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
- Follow prescribed medical treatments for the underlying cause of your joint pain.
- Dress warmly and avoid sudden temperature changes.
- Apply targeted heat to the painful joints.
At the Orthopedics and Traumatology Center of Centro Médico ABC, we provide specialized care. Contact us today!
Fuentes:
Fundación Corachan, MedlinePlus, MSD Manuals
