- That ache on a rainy day, that discomfort, is not just in your mind - it's in your heart.
'My joints ache before the weather breaks, and my old injuries tingle on rainy days.'
...Anyone else have such an experience?
Actually,There may be a link between weather and joint pain.This has long been a common voice among many people. Although modern medicine has not yet proven a clear cause-and-effect relationship, in recent years, there has been a gradual increase in theMechanism Hypothesisand as a "weather-related disease" that causes symptoms due to changes in weather conditions are also becoming more widely recognized.
Why are joints affected by "changes in atmospheric pressure"?
Joints are encased in a pouch-like structure called a "joint capsule," which contains a fluid called joint fluid.
this (something or someone close to the speaker (including the speaker), or ideas expressed by the speaker)Articular capsule is an enclosed spaceBecause it is aChanges in external atmospheric pressureIt is believed that there may be subtle expansion or changes in internal pressure due to
When the air pressure drops (before the weather breaks), the joint capsule swells slightly and the pressure in the joint changes,Irritates surrounding nerves, making them more sensitive to pain....is a typical hypothesis.
Also,As air pressure drops, blood vessels dilate, causing inflammation and pain.Some people believe that this is a good idea.
These reactions are,
- Osteoarthritis (knee or hip)
- Old injuries (sports trauma or post-operative sites)
- Rheumatoid arthritis and gout
The more joint problems a person has had to begin with, the more likely he or she tends to feel them, such as
What is the scientific support?
Unfortunately, at this time,There is no "study that completely proves a causal relationship between air pressure and joint pain."。
On the other hand, there are a great many cases where patients themselves have experienced weather-related changes,A theme that should not be overlooked in actual clinical practice.It is.
In recent years, terms such as "weather pain" and "weather-related illnesses" have been used, and research is progressing to suggest that the "inner ear," located behind the ear, acts like a barometric pressure sensor and disturbs the autonomic nervous system, causing pain and discomfort.
Even though the scientific evidence has not yet been established,As long as the "vexation" of patients exists, it is important for us medical professionals to respond to it with sincerity.It is.
■ Approach and advice at Ikejiri-Ohashi Sera Clinic
The clinic also for those who complain of joint pain due to barometric pressure or weather conditions,To accurately assess the current state of the jointsStart with
- Evaluation by echo and x-ray
- Check daily activities, posture, and gait
- Blood tests and medical evaluations as needed
and not just weather changes,Determine if there is inflammation or structural problems in the jointsI will do so.
Also, even if the pain is more intense due to weather,
- Strengthening and stretching muscles.therapeutic exercise
- Poultices and oral medications.pharmacotherapy
- Rhythm of life in preparation for changes in atmospheric pressure
We support our customers to make their daily lives more comfortable through
Prevention and measures you can take yourself
The following methods are also useful for daily care
- Check barometric pressure changes with weather forecast apps.and record changes in physical condition.
- Regular sleep, diet, and exercise habitsRegulate the autonomic nervous system with
- Moderate heat therapy(bath, warmer, etc.) to stimulate blood flow
- Avoid overcooling joints and excessive exposure to air conditioning.
When your physical condition ebbs and flows, your mood tends to sink as well.
If you feel "heavy or sore, though I don't know why."Weather changes may have something to do with it.This perspective can lead to tips for self-management.
■ Finally
Although the relationship between atmospheric pressure and joint pain is still largely unexplained scientifically, many patients have reported their real experiences, and we, medical professionals, are sincerely listening to their voices.
It is important to check the condition once, without putting up with "it's just my imagination.
We evaluate the condition of joints and the balance of the whole body from many angles, and propose an approach that suits each individual patient.
If you experience any weather-related joint discomfort, please contact us.
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