06/19/2025
Joint pain in the summer months, tips to beat the heat!
Why Summer Can Be Tough on Joints: The culprit? Inflammation. Hot weather can worsen inflammation in your joints, leading to increased pain, stiffness, and swelling. Additionally, changes in barometric pressure associated with summer storms can also trigger flare-ups.
☀️Hydration is Key: Dehydration in the summer can reduce the fluid around your joints. To help combat this, ensure you stay hydrated using water and sports drinks. The more fluid in your body, the easier it is for your joints to move.
☀️Beat the Heat: Plan outdoor activities for cooler mornings or evenings. Seek shade whenever possible, and wear loose, breathable clothing. When the temperatures rise, consider spending more of your time indoors in the air conditioning,
☀️Try new exercises: Move it or lose it! Just because it’s hot out does not mean that you should succumb to inactivity—it’s important to remain active to prevent pain and stiffness from setting in, but in the summer, you may have to get more creative. Consider trying a summer sport such as swimming. Not only does swimming help you stay active, but it does so while cooling your body. As a bonus, the buoyancy of water can help relieve pressure on your joints, further reducing pain.
☀️Talk to Your Doctor: Discuss any changes in your arthritis symptoms with your doctor. They may recommend adjustments to your medication or suggest additional therapies like physical therapy. Give us a call for an appointment if symptoms persist during the hot summer months!