Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute: How Seasonal Temperature Changes Can Affect Arthritis

FREEHOLD, N.J., Oct. 27, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- After unexpectedly balmy weather for the first few weeks of fall, autumn, it appears, has made its dramatic entrance in the tristate area. With dropping temperatures and conditions come seasonally-impacted allergies and symptoms for individuals with a variety of medical conditions. This is especially true for individuals with arthritis.

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Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute (AOSMI) is Central New Jersey's leading provider of orthopedic services. The orthopedic specialists at AOSMI help arthritis patients anticipate how their condition may be impacted as temperatures grow colder, as well as how to best manage symptoms in every season.

Dr. Alan Nasar, MD, AOSMI orthopedic surgeon and joint specialist, explains, "It is important to remember that, when we talk about 'arthritis,' a client can be referring to any of a number of conditions--rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, to name a few. The arthritic condition the patient is managing, along with the areas of the body that are affected, will determine the impact weather changes will have on symptomatology and treatment interventions."

As temperatures change, so does air pressure. Cooler temperatures lead to decreased air pressure, which can result in the expansion of the body's tissues and organs. The added pressure on the joints caused by this expansion can exacerbate arthritis-related pain. Additionally, individuals may feel less inclined to exercise as the weather cools. A more sedentary lifestyle is associated with increases in symptoms for arthritis patients.

Individuals living with arthritis can manage their condition in the fall months, like any time of year, with some small, manageable steps. First, it is critical to dress warmly to offset changes in temperature that can impact the joints. Patients can apply additional layers to the areas of their body that are most affected by arthritic pain, such as mittens or gloves for the hands and scarves for the neck.

Second, staying active and exercising regularly are key to minimizing pain and staying healthy throughout the colder months. This can be as simple as doing more physical work around the house, or more involved, like taking an aerobics class at the community center. Of course, all patients should consult with their doctor before increasing their current activity level. Regular exercise promotes strength and flexibility, which allows for better management of arthritis-related pain and other symptoms.

Even with such precautions in place, arthritic pain may increase in the fall. If this happens, consult with an orthopedic specialist to determine what treatment options are available to you, both surgical and nonsurgical, to ensure your body's optimal functioning.

Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute is a leading provider of orthopedic care in the tristate area. To schedule an appointment at AOSMI's Freehold or Monroe Twp, NJ offices, call 732-720-2555. To learn more about AOSMI's team of orthopedic specialists and the services they provide, visit their website. AOSMI can also be found on Facebook and Twitter.

Media Contact:   
Brittany Maynard 
[email protected]  
732-720-2555

SOURCE Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute