The spinal column plays a critical role in supporting the spinal cord and the Central Nervous System (CNS), which links the brain to the rest of the body. According to a report published by New York-based Mather Hospital, as many as 80% of people across the US suffer back pain at some point in life. Since a healthy spine translates to a healthy life, a compromised spine can affect how you perform activities like standing, lifting, sitting, and bending. 

We offer advanced pain and spine care treatment. Our highly trained doctors are board-certified in neurology/anesthesiology and pain management. The additional education is critical in diagnosing certain conditions and administering the best care and advanced pain treatments. Since its establishment in 1977, the practice has grown to 15 pain management clinics serving close to 90,000 patients yearly. 

How Changes in Season or Weather Affect Chronic Pain

Several studies have been conducted to explain whether changes in weather or seasons can impact chronic pain conditions. In a study appearing on NCBI, health providers demonstrated that seasonality could impact disease activity and joint distribution in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), a widespread autoimmune disease. Researchers recorded noticeable changes in functional deterioration during the winter and spring seasons. 

RA patient’s often experience synovitis and functional impairment in extreme cases. The study was conducted in Japan using a countrywide Rheumatoid Arthritis database. Following the studies, healthcare providers are advised to take note of seasonal fluctuations when monitoring RA manifestation. Providers may also be forced to make adjustments in Activities of Daily Living (ADL) to help patients with RA adjust well to the seasonal changes.

Other Counter Measures

Based on the quality of studies, there are still limitations to conclude whether weather influences chronic pain. However, several general precautions have been advanced to guide health practitioners and help patients ease weather-induced joint pain. A report published by WebMD suggests the following tips to relieve joint pain when changing climate:

• Keep yourself warm when the temperatures drop
• Ask your physician for effective pain medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Try to maintain a healthy weight and stay active
• Take good nutrition and have sufficient sleep
• Seek help when lifting heavy objects to avoid straining your joints

Seek the Help You Need

Ascent Pain Solutions is at the forefront of providing interventional pain procedures and support medications to relieve pain. If you are suffering from pain, know you have a trusted partner. Fill out the form below to get started.