In a tropical country like India, the summers are too harsh. The heat and humidity increases exponentially as the temperature soars high in the month of April and May. The heat wave during this time worsens the condition of people who are suffering from arthritis and chronic joint pain. Joints in the human body have sensory nerves that have the ability to sense the change in temperature and weather. The change in the temperature and humidity tends to change the fluid level that is found in the joints and results in inflammation and pain. It can also affect the movement of the joints as it causes laxity in the ligaments, tendons and muscles.

Arthritis is one such disease which has multiple triggers such as autoimmune diseases, trauma to the joints, a viral infection and sudden weight gain. But the temperature variations are one of the main triggers for inflammation as the joints have the tendency to swell and cause extreme pain.

Ways to manage arthritis during summer

Summer is considered to be one of the main seasons for increased pain in the joints and it is difficult to manage because of the increased levels of heat and humidity. The below mentioned ways can be followed to ease the arthritis in summer.

1. Plan your activities in tandem with the temperature – Although the summer is a time for activities, people who suffer from arthritis need to plan them keeping in mind the temperature. It is imperative to do stretches before planning any physical activity. It is also important to plan outdoor activities that will not stress muscles. As the humidity and heat outdoors tend to flare up pain. Arthritis can be alleviated by understanding the limitations and acquiring them can bring a difference between a healthy summer day and a joint swelling.

2. Frequent Hydration – Temperature variation has a direct effect on the fluid content in the body, this decreases the lubrication of the joints and induces the pain and inflammation. As the mercury soars, the heat depletes the fluid levels and dehydrates the body. This leads to pain and inflammation in the joints because of the increased friction between the bones. Sufficient hydration helps in keeping the cartilage soft and it facilitates healthy blood flow. Hence, hydration becomes very crucial to arthritis management in summer. Hydration levels can be maintained by consuming plenty of fruits and veggies in addition to regular water intake. Some fruits and vegetables that are rich in water content include celery, spinach, oranges, tomatoes, cucumbers, orange and watermelon.

3. Dressing in comfortable clothes and footwear – As the temperature outside rises, it is essential to dress comfortably and preferably in clothes which allows easy flow of blood. Footwear is also an integral part in order to prevent over exertion of pressure on joints like toe and ankle.

4. Visit to physiotherapist – Physiotherapist is the best person to design a low impact exercise routine for easing of pain in the summer. Therefore, the physiotherapist consultation can be very helpful.

These steps can help in preventing or easing the artritis pain during the summer season. It is always a good option to seek advice from a medical expert when the pain becomes unbearable.

Dr. Pavan Chebbi
Consultant, Orthopaedic Surgeon
Apollo Spectra Hospital, Bangalore

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