THE DOCTOR IS IN: Four tips for managing your arthritis in cold weather months

By Dr Adam Parker

Potential links between cold weather and arthritic pain have been studied and debated for years. While there is no definitive link between two, the mind can play a role in how one perceives pain.
Whether or not the cold air is triggering pain in patients with arthritis, it’s easy to get swept up in the holiday season and lack of outdoor activities and forget to properly manage the condition.
Here are few tips that will help make the winter months a little less painful:

1. Find an indoor pool. Swimming is a low-impact activity that is beneficial to the joints. Many local gyms and clubs have indoor pools that are heated. Swimming, water walking and water aerobics are a great way to stay warm and relieve pain.
2. Exercise. Many people let their exercise regimens lapse during the holiday season and winter months. Exercise has a positive effect on range of motion and pain in joints affected by arthritis, so don’t stop moving.
3. Eat healthy. Don’t forget to pack your diet with fish, citrus and green veggies. Fish are full of Omega-3s, which can help reduce inflammation. Citrus fruits such as oranges and lemons are loaded with Vitamin C and leafy, green vegetables like Kale and spinach are laden with Vitamin K. Both can reduce markers of inflammation in the bloodstream.
4. Consider a supplement. If maintaining a healthy diet and exercising on a regular basis aren’t making a significant impact, it might be time to ask your physician if supplements are right for you. It’s important to consult your physician before starting any supplements, so you can discuss how they might affect you and how they might react with any other medications you may be taking.

http://www.stltoday.com/suburban-journals/stcharles/the-doctor-is-in-four-tips-for-managing-your-arthritis/article_86b2e224-f539-52c9-b76c-9078fb942e88.html