Monsoon diseases: Perfect strategies to manage arthritis pain this rainy season

Monsoons can take a toll on your joints, making arthritis pain worse. Even though monsoons bring relief from the scorching heat, it can take a toll on your joints, worsen arthritis problems and take away your peace of mind.

Arthritis means inflammation of the joints, which causes pain and stiffness and this crippling condition can hinder a person’s ability to carry out daily activities with ease. Most people suffer from arthritis pain due to the changes in the weather during monsoon.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Pramod Bhor, Director, Orthopaedics and Robotic Joint Replacement Surgeon, Fortis Hospital, Vashi, explains how monsoon can affect your joints and aggravate arthritis pain –

• The high humidity during the monsoon season causes excess fluid to accumulate in the body tissues, mainly around the joints, resulting in stiffness and discomfort, which may further cause joint problems.
• Changes in atmospheric pressure during the rainy season can cause inflammation and trigger arthritis, leading to swelling and reduced joint mobility. Changes in temperature during monsoon can affect the consistency of joint fluid in the joints, leading to increased pain and stiffness.
• Reduced physical activity due to heavy rains can lead to immobility, muscle weakness, and joint pain.

He gave the following essential tips to manage joint pain during monsoon –

1. Exercise indoors: Daily exercise is very important to prevent joint pain. To deal with joint problems, take a walk indoors or join a gym or do yoga on the advice of a fitness expert. Exercise will also help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce joint pain.
2. Wear suitable footwear: Try to protect the joints from excessive moisture. Wear proper footwear by choosing waterproof shoes. Use an umbrella to protect yourself from getting wet during the rainy season. Avoid staying in damp places for a long time.
3. Try heat and cold therapy: Hot compresses, heating pads and hot baths can help relieve joint pain. Also, ice packs can help reduce inflammation and swelling of the joints. However, discuss with a doctor about hot and cold treatments to enjoy monsoons without aggravating joint pain and arthritis. If you are massaging your joints, be gentle and do it with minimal pressure. It would be a good idea to consult your treating doctor before opting for a massage.
4. Ensure proper hydration and diet: Dehydration is a common problem during the rainy season. Drink enough water to lubricate your joints. Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids like fish, walnuts and flax seeds which reduce inflammation and improve joint health.