The increased achiness felt with weather changes is usually present in people with arthritic changes in the joints, especially those of the spine, knees, hips, shoulders, elbows and hands. Joints with a history of injury are particularly susceptible to weather changes.
This phenomenon has been dismissed by many, but research has shown that nerves sensitive to pressure changes, called baroreceptors,(like barometer) are sensitive to even slight changes in atmospheric air pressure. “The phenomenon of people being able to forecast precipitation, especially rain, due to the level of their joint pain is real,” says Dr. Javad Parvizi, director of clinical research at the Rothman Institute at Jefferson, and associate professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia “It is not in the patient’s head. There is science to back it up.”
However, people seem to be most sensitive to change from high to low barometric pressure, which usually happens when the weather turns from dry to moist, such as before rain or snow.
What you can do to help yourself
Omega 3 (fish oil or flaxseed) supplements can help reduce inflammation. Glucosamine sulfate (not HCl) and chondroitin in combination are effective at reducing arthritic pain. Enzyme based natural anti-inflammatory supplements like Bromelain are effective and don’t harm the liver or kidneys. Using enzyme based supplements for this purpose requires specific dosing instructions for the supplements to be effective. It has been our experience that people who obtain these supplements from health food stores rarely get the proper dosage instructions. Consult your Chiropractor to learn how to use these supplements effectively.
If you are interested in using supplements to control your joint pain, or if you are interested in Chiropractic care, call us at 219-738-1925 or visit our website, www.integratedchiro.net
Parvizi, J People with joint pain really can forecast thunderstorms. Science Daily June 3, 2008.