Just as the effects of weather vary, the best climate may not be the same for all people. But based on research, it appears that for most people with arthritis, a warmer, drier climate may be optimal, such as that in parts of Texas, Arizona, Nevada and the Eastern Sierra region of California.
This study showed that cold, damp conditions lead to elevated pain levels in people with arthritis, while dry, hot conditions tend to cause less discomfort. However, there isn't clear evidence explaining why humidity worsens arthritic pain.
The good news is that you can live — and live well — with osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis. You can get relief from its pain and its consequences. This Special Health Report from Harvard Medical School will show you how.
Lifestyle changes such as increasing physical activity and exercise and reducing excess body weight can have the greatest effect on osteoarthritis. Developing relaxation and coping skills can help you maintain balance in your life, giving you a greater feeling of control over your arthritis and a more positive outlook.
People with osteoarthritis usually have joint pain and, after rest or inactivity, stiffness for a short period of time. The most commonly affected joints include the: Hands (ends of the fingers and at the base and ends of the thumbs). Knees.
The most common triggers of an OA flare are overdoing an activity or trauma to the joint. Other triggers can include bone spurs, stress, repetitive motions, cold weather, a change in barometric pressure, an infection or weight gain.
Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine (WFIRM) scientists have created a promising injectable cell therapy to treat osteoarthritis that both reduces inflammation and also regenerates articular cartilage.
Arthritis by itself is not fatal, but research has shown that the complications that may arise in more severe cases can shorten lifespan by six to seven years. There are many ways to reduce your risk of complications from arthritis.
According to Professor Karen Walker-Bone, professor of occupational rheumatology at the University of Southampton, people with osteoarthritis generally prefer warm and dry weather, while those with rheumatoid arthritis tend to prefer the cooler weather.
Walking is recommended for people with arthritis as it's low impact, helps to keep the joints flexible, helps bone health and reduces the risk of osteoporosis. If you do experience pain or you're very stiff afterwards try doing a bit less, factor in more rest and check in with your GP, if you need to.
Age—The risk of developing OA increases with age. Gender—Women are more likely to develop OA than men, especially after age 50. Obesity—Extra weight puts more stress on joints, particularly weight-bearing joints like the hips and knees. This stress increases the risk of OA in that joint.
Sea water contains silicic acid which helps ease skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis. It has a great effect on anyone with rheumatism, arthritis, back or joints pain,contracted muscles.
“Humidity seems to be the biggest culprit, but we actually don't know why.” There's the rub: People with arthritis often notice a connection between humidity or temperature and joint pain symptoms, and may even report it to their doctors.
Everyone needs exercise, but it's especially important for people with arthritis. Exercise increases strength and makes moving easier. Exercise reduces joint pain and helps fight tiredness.
Studies have shown fatigue to be common among people with osteoarthritis and a factor in their quality of life. 1 Fatigue is typically associated with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and other inflammatory rheumatic conditions, but it can be seen in osteoarthritis as well.
Pills. NSAIDs are the most effective oral medicines for OA. They include ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) naproxen (Aleve) and diclofenac (Voltaren, others). All work by blocking enzymes that cause pain and swelling.
Osteoarthritis is typically treated with painkillers known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These medications have an anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effect. Examples of NSAIDs include diclofenac, ibuprofen and naproxen.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Over-the-counter NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve), taken at the recommended doses, typically relieve osteoarthritis pain.
Osteoarthritic joints have low levels of aggrecan, proteoglycan, type-II collagen, and runt-related transcription factor 1(RUNX1).
What Exercises Work Best for Osteoarthritis? Each of the following types of exercises plays a role in maintaining and improving the ability to move and function. Walking and aquatic exercises are particularly good for most people with osteoarthritis.
You can start with short, brisk walks, climbing up and down stairs, or riding a stationary bike. As your endurance builds up, go for 30- to 45-minute sessions. Walking, biking, swimming, tai chi, yoga, and water aerobics are all good aerobic exercises for people with osteoarthritis.