A formidable duo: pain and climate. For centuries, people have observed a relationship between the weather and their state of health, particularly at the joint level.
- It is now established that climate can have a significant impact on the perception of pain.
- Several weather factors can influence pain, including air pressure, humidity, temperature, and wind.
- For example, research in the United States has shown that patients with fibromyalgia are more sensitive to changes in temperature and atmospheric pressure.
Popular expressions such as “when it’s going to rain, my rheumatism hurts” illustrate this common perception.
Although science has not yet elucidated all the mechanisms involved, it is now established that climate can have a significant impact on the perception of pain.
Weather and pain: the cause and effect links
Several weather factors can influence pain, including:
- Atmospheric pressure: A drop in atmospheric pressure, common before thunderstorms or cyclones, can cause joint tissues to expand and increase pain in people with osteoarthritis, arthritis, or trauma.
- Humidity: Humid ambient air can promote joint inflammation and amplify the perception of pain, particularly in people with rheumatic diseases.
- Temperature: Cold weather can cause muscles and tendons to tighten, increasing joint pain. Conversely, high temperatures can cause joints to soften and tendons to become fragile, increasing the risk of pain and injury.
- Wind: Strong winds can increase the sensation of pain, especially in people with fibromyalgia or neuropathic pain.
Scientific studies confirm the link
Numerous scientific studies have shown a correlation between weather conditions and increased chronic pain.
- A study in France showed that hospitalizations for lower back pain were 20% more frequent on days of low atmospheric pressure.
- Another study in the UK found that people with osteoarthritis experienced more severe pain on rainy, high-humidity days.
- Research in the United States has shown that fibromyalgia patients are more sensitive to changes in temperature and atmospheric pressure.
How to protect yourself from the effects of climate on pain?
If you suffer from chronic pain and are sensitive to climate changes, here are some tips to protect yourself:
- Monitor the weather forecast: Anticipate changes in air pressure, humidity, and temperature to better manage your pain.
- Adapt your physical activity: Avoid intense physical effort on unfavorable days and favor gentler activities such as swimming or yoga.
- Dress warmly: Protect your joints from the cold by wearing warm, comfortable clothing.
- Maintain adequate humidity in your home: An ideal humidity level between 40 and 60% can help reduce joint inflammation.
- Use technical aids: Splints, bandages or canes can help relieve painful joints and limit their stress.
- Apply local therapies: Heat, cold or cryotherapy can be beneficial in relieving pain and inflammation.
- Consult your doctor: If your pain worsens depending on the climate, do not hesitate to consult your doctor for individualized advice and appropriate treatment.
Remember that managing chronic pain requires a comprehensive and individualized approach.
By combining preventive measures, drug treatments and non-drug therapies, you can improve your quality of life and limit the impact of climate on your well-being.
