Joint Health: Myths or Facts

Fact: Evidence from research shows that in some cases climate can affect the symptom of joint pain but does not affect the course of the disease. There are a few theories that try to explain why some people experience increased joint pain in cold, damp weather. One theory is that a drop in air pressure causes tissues in the body to swell. The increased swelling of already inflamed joints leads to increased pain. Others theorize that one’s pain threshold drops in cold weather. Also, mood is negatively impacted by damp and dreary weather and most folks are less likely to be outdoors and exercising in cold weather.