Las weather conditions have been the subject of speculation regarding the muscle and joint pain. It has been noted that high temperatures and low humidity can increase the risk of gout flare-ups. In cases of gout, hot weather can trigger dehydration and raise uric acid levels. However, the connection is not as clear in chronic musculoskeletal diseases.
A group of researchers from the University of Sydney in Australia has conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis examining cross-case studies to assess the temporal risk of musculoskeletal health events and their associations with various climate parameters such as temperature, relative humidity, atmospheric pressure, and precipitation.
The curious relationship between time and pain
Among the 1,107 studies analyzed in the search, 11 were selected (involving 15,315 participants), which provided data on 28,010 events in a total of 102,536 control periods. These studies addressed seven different musculoskeletal conditions.
Professor Manuela Ferreira, from the Sydney Musculoskeletal Health Initiative, highlights that there is a widespread perception that musculoskeletal symptoms, such as back pain, hip pain, or arthritic symptoms, are aggravated under certain climatic conditions. However, his research challenges this notion by showing that, regardless of whether it's raining or sunny, the weather is not directly related to most aches and pains.
The study, conducted at Sydney's Kolling Institute, identified osteoarthritis of the knee or hip as the most common condition, followed by low back pain and rheumatoid arthritis. The results revealed that changes in temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure and rainfall They do not appear to increase the risk of knee, hip, or lower back pain symptoms, nor are they linked to new events requiring medical attention for arthritis.
This study is pioneering in its approach by specifically evaluating the role of transient and modifiable risk factors, such as weather, on muscle and joint symptoms. The findings debunk a common medical myth and emphasize the importance of Patients do not let the weather influence their treatment options. According to Ferreira, both patients and doctors should focus on managing the condition, including weight control and exercise, rather than worrying about the weather.
How the cold influences
Although bones are not directly related to the sensation of pain due to weather changes, Joints can be affected by time.
Cold can cause muscle contraction, as well as vasoconstriction, reducing blood flow and muscle elasticity. Additionally, we tend to unconsciously contract to maintain body temperature, which causes muscle stiffness.
Changes in atmospheric pressure, known as barometric changes, can also influence joint pain. Pressure affects sensory nerve endingstriggering the release of pro-inflammatory substances by baroreceptors, which can increase joint pain.
Both cold and pressure changes can alter the viscosity of synovial fluid, which lubricates the joints and protects them from impacts. If this fluid becomes thicker, it can cause stiffness and increase joint friction.
For mitigate the effects of these changes on musculoskeletal health and prevent problems, it is crucial to follow certain guidelines:
- Perform physical exercise regularly and of moderate intensity to strengthen muscles and structures.
- Practice gentle stretches to prepare your joints before any physical activity.
- Apply heat locally in a gentle way to relieve muscle or joint disorders.
- Maintain proper posture and avoid excessive efforts that could damage the joints.
- Avoid sudden changes in temperature that may affect the sensitivity of the joints.
- Follow a balanced diet that includes essential nutrients for joint health, and consider supplementation under professional supervision if necessary.
Rheumatic diseases
In Spain, approximately one in four people over 20 years of age suffers from a rheumatic disease, which makes them the main chronic musculoskeletal diseases in young adults, with a higher incidence in women.
The Spanish Society of Rheumatology (SER) It highlights that around 25% of the adult population in Spain suffers from some rheumatic disease. These diseases tend to manifest themselves in young women, especially at the time when they are considering motherhood.
The rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic disease that affects around 300,000 people In Spain, according to the SER Episer study, it is characterized by inflammatory pain in peripheral joints such as hands, feet, wrists, shoulders, elbows, hips and knees.
Los technological and pharmacological advances Recent studies have significantly improved the quality of life of these patients, allowing them to resume previous activities. Early diagnosis and timely treatment are essential to control the disease and improve long-term prognosis.
Rheumatoid arthritis usually affects middle-aged or older people and presents with Symmetrical joint pain, especially in the hands, feet, and knees.