How does cold wheather influence chronic joint pain?

Question

Does anyone know the pathophysiological explanation for this?

Answer 1

In cold weather the musculo-skeletal system basically tightens up. As the muscles tighten, they stiffen the joints which will exacerbate the joint pain.
The synovial fluid which is the "fluid" that lubricates the joints will become less viscous, just like motor oil in very cold conditions, so the joints are not easily lubricated.
If it is cold and damp, then the changes in barometric pressure will also come into play. That is why people with severe arthritis can always tell when it is going to rain.
This is why heat is used so much in physical therapy; it has the exact opposite effect on joints that cold has. Heat loosens everything up.

Answer 2

I have joint pain, and whenever it is cold or raining, my joints really hurt. I think it has to do with the swelling of the joint, and the stiffness the cold creates. I just have a lot more baths on the cold days. I also use heat.
I'm not sure if it's the connective tissue or the joints themselves, but what a difference the cold makes than the warm weather.

Answer 3

Cold Causes the muscles to constrict and this places pressure on the nerves which run through the joints. anyone with chronic joint pain will tell you that they always hurt more when it's cold or there's a change in the barometric pressure.

Answer 4

there is a natural fluid in the body called synovial fluid
it lubricates the joints
just like water and all liquids cold effects the joints and the area constricts

Answer 5

Pain is related to coldness energy in our body. Atmospheric cold adds to it hence pains increase with cold weather. Therefore there is no medicine for almost all painful diseases, may it be a simple head ache or rheumatism. This is the reason why such diseases can be treated without medicine.

Answer 6

Good question! The barometric pressure in the air drops and puts pressure on your body. Similar to scuba diving the further down the water you go the more pressure you put on the body.

Answer 7

When the barometic pressure drops it affects the body.

Answer 8

it jus' does, athritis, etc, an old wound, such as broken arm, etc.

Answer 9

Makes it worse for me!