Arthritis during the summer months

Arthritis is a chronic ailment that many middle to older aged adults live with on a daily basis. Suffering from arthritis is something that is painful throughout the entire year. This can be frustrating during the summer months because you are more likely to want to be more active but because of your arthritis pain, you are limited in your range of motion. This is why it is important to take the proper precautions like seeing a physical therapist.

Arthritis is the inflammation and swelling of the joints which causes pain and discomfort. A common misconception is that arthritis is worse during the winter months. Many people do not realize that the high temperatures of the summer months as well as the humidity, can be just as bad. The best thing to do for your arthritis is to practice inflammation reducing exercises.  By seeing a physical therapist, they will give you specific exercises to perform which will relieve pain as well as strengthen muscles around the affected joints.

There are other things that you can do in addition to seeing a physical therapist like staying hydrated. This is important not only towards preventing heat illness during the summer months but to also decreasing joint inflammation which will provide relief for your arthritis pain. Staying cool will also help your arthritic symptoms during the summer, so make sure to be prepared with air conditioning and portable fans. Dressing appropriately will also help relieve arthritis because wearing heavy and dark clothing will attract more heat making your symptoms feel worse. Wearing proper footwear will also help distribute your weight effectively thus reducing pressure on your joints. Another great way to alleviate arthritis pain is to stay active and do physical activity that isn’t stressful on the joints like swimming for example.

Don’t let arthritis ruin your summer; there are many things that can be done to alleviate pain. The summer is too short so don’t be afraid to get out there and enjoy it the way it should be enjoyed.