Knee pain getting worse in the cold wind, prevention and management of arthritis?
Oct 27, 2024
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This is because in autumn, as the temperature decreases, the blood circulation of joints and surrounding tissues decreases, and structures such as muscles and ligaments harden while asleep without movement.
In response, Kwon Oh-ryong, director of Yonsei Star Hospital (Orthopedic Surgeon), said "Joints are highly affected by changes in temperature and humidity, and arthritis patients can react particularly sensitively to these changes. Symptoms of stiff joints in the morning vary for various reasons, but if symptoms persist or appear with pain or swelling, it can be seen as a sign of the onset of degenerative arthritis."
In arthritis, from autumn to midwinter, the lower the temperature, the less flexibility of the joints and the more severe the pain or swelling. In order to alleviate these symptoms, it is recommended to make a habit of stretching for 5 to 10 minutes instead of waking up immediately in the morning. Poultice and massage joints with a warm hot pack helps relieve stiffness
Drinking a lot of water can also help increase joint flexibility and reduce pain or stiffness. Sufficient water intake can have a positive effect on the dryness of the joint, helping to maintain synovial fluid that acts as a lubricant around the joint. Synovial fluid reduces friction in joints and absorbs shocks to help joints' health.
However, if knee stiffness and pain persist, hyaluronic acid knee injections can help.
A substance called hyaluronic acid is originally a substance that exists in our body joints and acts as a lubricant for joints, but it is supplemented by injection treatment to help smooth the movement of joints in cases of degenerative arthritis or joint stiffness
For knee health, efforts should be made to reduce the burden on the knee.
It is necessary to maintain proper weight, train muscles such as calves and thighs around the knees to distribute the load on the joints and to exercise steadily to increase flexibility.
Kwon Oh-ryong, director of the hospital, said "When cartilage begins to be damaged due to arthritis, it is difficult to completely heal because cartilage is a tissue that does not regenerate itself. In particular, it is recommended that middle-aged women after the age of 50 entering the menopause undergo regular examination of their knees and plan joint health care tailored to their personal situation" he advised.
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bellho@sportschosun.com
