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While winter provides relief from the hot months, it also raises a number of health concerns for the geriatric population. Doctors agree that as the cold months approach, cases of joint pain and muscle spasm increase, particularly among the elderly who suffer from chronic pain.
“This includes feeling pain in the old injuries and operated sites too. Reportedly, there has been a steady rise in patients with such complaints. Due to the change in the temperature and cold weather, there is a lot of stiffness in the muscles and lining of the joints, also called joint capsules,” said Dr Chakor.
During this time, there is also less blood supply to the surrounding areas of the body. When this occurs, the person experiences discomfort and pain when moving highly mobile joints such as the knees, hips, and fingers.
This is due to the thickening of fluids in the body, according to Dr Raghavendra Ramanjulu, Lead Consultant, Palliative Medicine & Rehabilitation, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore. “At that point, joint fluids thicken and muscles spasm,” says the doctor.
Dr. added that muscle pain could cause a lot of friction, resulting in shivering. “An inflammatory mediator is formed, which can cause muscle pain, ache, and low-grade inflammation, which can lead to joint friction. In general, during the winter, most of the chronic pain will definitely increase,”
SUN LIGHT
Most people suffer from this type of pain as a result of their limited exposure to sunlight. “There is less flexibility in the muscles or ligaments, which causes a lot of fatigue and muscle soreness when moved, leading to pain in the movements,” Dr Chakor explained.
Dr. Ramanjulu advised that people should expose themselves to sunlight during the day as much as possible because it relieves “stiffness.”
HYDRATION
It is critical that you stay hydrated. Most people do not drink enough water during the cold season, resulting in joint pains and muscle spasms. Drinking plenty of fluids keeps the joints and muscles working properly.
FOODS
To avoid such complaints from the elderly or anyone who suffers from joint aches and pains, it is always advisable to consume foods rich in vitamins C, D, and K. This includes spinach, cabbage, tomatoes, and oranges, which contain calcium and other minerals necessary for bone and joint.
“Eating a well-balanced, healthy and nutritious diet is what would make a difference. Dairy products, cereals, pulses and seasonal fruits should be included in the diet too,” advised Dr Chakor.
Dr Ramanjulu said that people should consume foods that can increase a person’s serotonin levels. This includes nuts, green leafy vegetables, various probiotic substances, eggs and chicken.
CHANGES IN LIFESTYLE
Some lifestyle changes, such as taking a hot shower before bed, can help people stay warm. Dr. Ramanjulu suggested drinking a glass of warm milk before bed to improve your sleep.
“The majority of muscle pain and spasms will be relieved if sleep is improved. If the depth of sleep is inadequate, a vicious cycle will ensue. The next morning, you’ll wake up with even more aches and pains “He stated.
He explained that the winter blues can exacerbate pain, especially for those who suffer from chronic aches.
Keeping a positive attitude and engaging in activities that you enjoy will help you break the cycle of pain, which often includes sleep loss and mood swings, according to Dr. Ramanjulu.
EXERCISES
“Stretching exercises are the most effective at relaxing muscles and preventing joint pain, particularly knee pain. Aside from that, regular exercises should include cycling, walking, aerobics, and swimming, all of which strengthen and keep the knee muscles healthy and flexible “Dr. Chakor stated.
BAD POSTURE
Many times, poor posture at work, prolonged sitting, or lifting heavy objects causes pain in the spine joints and backache. This is especially true in the winter, so to avoid backache, perform daily routine activities safely, without jerky movements or lifting heavy objects.
Source:IN
