As most people get older they start to feel pain and stiffness in their fingers, hands, knees or shoulders over time. These pain sufferers may have arthritis, which doctors believe may be caused by inflammation of the tissue lining the joints. Cold weather tends to aggravate this condition especially if you are among the 45 million or so Americans who have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis.
Cold weather may have more effect on arthritis sufferers that first thought according to a French study of diagnosed arthritis patients. Rheumatoid arthritis that demonstrates in the winter or early spring may actually be more severe than arthritis that emerges in the warmer months of summer and early fall. Viruses, such as common cold and flu viruses, which are more prevalent in colder weather may play a part in the increased severity of winter-onset arthritis.
Do not let winter's cold winds keep you hiding indoors until the thaw. Keeping all your joints moving will help you keep the pain, stiffness and discomfort at a minimum. Bundle up appropriately and get out for a brisk walk every day rain and snow permitting. Consistent exercise will also help you keep your weight under control. Not only will you burn more calories than your couch-potato self, but the simple act of getting up and getting out when you don't always feel like it will keep you motivated and positive.
Do stay warm and dry however. The old saying about cold and dampness aggravating joint pain is almost certainly true. Dress warmly in layered clothing. New fabrics that wick moisture away from the skin are ideal. Keep your feet dry. There are many brands of waterproof shoes and boots available. If your feet do get wet that is probably a good enough reason to return to home base and get your feet dry and comfortable before venturing out again.
Take a warm to hot shower if you feel like you may have overdone it. Do some gentle stretching in the shower to keep the blood moving through your muscles.
With electricity rates and heating oil costs on a constant rise some people will choose to keep their thermostats a little lower than they would like. Dress warmly in the house too if that is the case. A warm blanket draped over your legs will work wonders. For small rooms where people tend to gather to watch TV a portable gas heater can quickly bring the temperature up to toasty.
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