Soothe joint ache

wellbeing

Why are we prone to joint aches in the winter? Due to the cold weather, the pain threshold of the body decreases as the nerve endings become sensitive. Here is what you can do to prevent the agony:

Maintain a balanced diet: Oranges, cabbage, spinach and tomatoes are superfoods when it comes to getting relief from knee pain. Take Vitamin D supplements after consulting a doctor. Adding sulphur rich foods to your diet will also help.

Drink plenty of water: In winter, we tend to reduce our water consumption, but the body needs to be hydrated to maintain the right amount of friction in our joints.

Wear knee support gear: There are many kinds of bands and braces available in the market that provide comfort and protect your knee from serious injuries.

Physiotherapy: People suffering from osteoarthritis should regularly go for physiotherapy to maintain flexibility in the joints and get relief from the pain. The sessions provide the right amount of movement, warmth and medication to sooth your knees.  

Exercise regularly: Due to lack of physical activity, joints become stiff in winter. To avoid this, move around periodically and get some exercise. And remember to warm up before rigorous exercise to avoid injury.

Check your shoes: Wearing the right sized shoe is good for your joints. Avoid wearing high heels for long hours.

Quit smoking: It is a lesser known fact that people who smoke tend to have lower bone density and hence, are at higher risk of issues related to bones and joints. Quit smoking for robust bones.

Take enough calcium: Keep a watch on your calcium intake. Foods rich in calcium are great for your joints and bones.

(The author is head of unit & lead consultant, Dept of Orthopaedics, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Delhi)