Joint Pain: Cold and Rainy Weather Alert?

Feeling achy and stiff lately? It may have to do with the weather. People have long talked about how their joints hurt when the weather changes. There’s always been plenty of anecdotal evidence, but no scientific data until a 2003 Japanese study published in the International Journal of Biometeorology found that there was a direct connection between low pressure, low temperatures and joint pain in rats. It suggests that cold, humidity, and moisture in the air triggers joint pain. Changes in synovial fluid (decreased joint lubrication) could increase inflammation and pain. As usual, more studies are needed. Luckily, exercise and various therapies can help relieve pain and stiffness.