Joint pain is common these days. CDC statistics reveal that over 50 million adults in the U.S. have arthritis, with the prevalence increasing significantly among seniors. Another study published in the Journal of Gerontology found that “winter was associated with increased pain intensity and decreased physical activity” in people with knee osteoarthritis. Clearly, arthritis is a prevalent problem that isn’t going away anytime soon, least of all in the middle of a freezing winter. The team at Your Next Step wants you to stay active and pain-free, no matter what the weather brings.
To help achieve that, here are five simple ways to combat arthritis of the feet and ankles in a colder climate!
- Warm Up: A morning routine of low-impact exercises like yoga, tai chi, or water aerobics can increase blood flow and loosen stiff joints.
- Gear Up: Invest in thermal socks and supportive footwear to keep your feet happy and stable. Custom orthotics can provide significant relief.
- Helping with Heat: Applying heat therapy pads or taking warm baths can increase blood flow, relax muscles, and ease joint pain. Just remember to keep the temperature moderate and avoid direct contact with heating elements to prevent burns.
- Traction Takes Charge: Icy sidewalks and slick floors become daunting terrains for arthritic joints, not to mention the fact that they’re slip and fall hazards as well. To counteract these risks, invest in footwear with good traction or wear shoe grips to prevent loss of stability.
- Listen to Your Body: Don’t push through the pain. Instead, prioritize getting enough sleep and managing stress – both can impact your body’s response to pain and ensuing inflammation.
When in doubt, consult your podiatrist or healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options! These may include:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications.
- Targeted injections of cortisone or AF fluid to provide pain relief for longer periods.
- A physical therapy program can improve joint strength, flexibility, and overall function.
Dr. Eric Ricefield, Dr. Mark Yagodich, Dr. Aliza V. Eisen, and Dr. Cassandra Stache would be pleased to help handle your arthritis. Schedule an appointment by contacting Your Next Step Foot and Ankle Care Center in Greater Philadelphia today!