Is The Summer Heat Affecting Your Joints?

Many people associate joint pain with cold weather, but summer heat can also impact certain joints and conditions. At Advanced Orthopedics & Joint Preservation, our Brooklyn orthopedist would like to share some information about warm weather and joint pain and how you can manage joint pain flare-ups. Continue reading to learn more! 

Summer Heat and Joint Pain

Whether it’s your elbow, knee, or hip, all joints have fluid in them. The synovial fluid lubricates your joints and keeps them moving smoothly. Warm summer weather means increased humidity and pressure outdoors. While the cold can cause your joints to ache, warm weather can increase pain and swelling and change the thickness of the fluid in the joints. Here are some of the ways that summer heat can affect your joints:

• Heat can keep you from moving, and inactivity can stiffen the joints. 
• Muscles, ligaments, and tendons expand in hot weather. 
• Heat and humidity can cause you to sweat and lose water in your body. This can reduce fluid around the joints and cause pain. 

Not everyone with joint problems experiences these issues in the hot weather. If you’re experiencing joint discomfort during the summer, our Brooklyn orthopedist is here to help you keep them comfortable! 

Keeping Joints Comfortable in the Summer

If rising temperatures and humidity cause joint pain and stiffness, our Brooklyn orthopedist would like to share some tips for preventing pain in the heat:

• Avoid Staying Outside – If you have chronic joint pain, it’s best to avoid being outside for extended periods. When you’re outdoors, listen to your body and avoid strenuous activities so you don’t overheat. Too much time outdoors can cause more inflammation in your joints. 
• Stay Hydrated – Be sure to maintain fluid levels and drink plenty of water. Sugary drinks, caffeine, and alcohol can dehydrate you, so exercise caution to avoid dehydration. 
• Go Swimming – Activity is essential for your joint health, and taking a dip in the pool is a great way to cool off and relieve pressure on your joints. Swimming is a great low-impact exercise for individuals with arthritis or joint pain. 

Contact Us

Heat can be a nuisance for those with joint problems, but you shouldn’t let it stop you from enjoying the summer season! Our Brooklyn orthopedist at Advanced Orthopedics & Joint Preservation is here to help you manage your joint pain and keep symptoms at bay so you can enjoy your summer! Be sure to contact us today to learn more or request an appointment!