PNS| HYDERABAD
After the scorching summer heat arrives the enigmatic monsoon, rejuvenating the hearts of every living creature dwelling on the earth. The farmers rejoice with happiness at the onset of the monsoon season. The children embrace the dancing raindrops with enormous delight. The green leaves and the lush green terrain celebrate nature’s abundance.
Every year, the villagers of surya nagar eagerly wait to rejoice in the rhythm of the monsoon rains. But the dark clouds do not arrive alone! They bring with them joint pain. The terrible pain has been troubling the elders for over a decade. For the villagers, the aching joint pain was a curse from the rain gods for the sins committed by human beings. But a fifteen year old girl refused to believe it. One fine morning two medical practitioners arrived in the village. They were Dr. Manisha Dutta, an orthopedic surgeon, and Dr. Aman Chandra, a skilled rheumatologist. They listened to the villagers about their problems. After several speculations, they embarked on a shared mission of understanding the mystery of the relationship between the rains and joint pain.
Dr. Aman examined his patients and found a pattern with orthopedic conditions. He concluded that the increased joint pain was the cause of dropped temperature during the monsoon season. As the temperature drops, the fluids thicken, unable to lubricate the joints. Hence, the joints become stiff, leading to a painful experience for the elders. On the other hand, Dr. Manisha drew a line of similarity between rheumatology and joint pain. According to her analysis, atmospheric pressure dropped during the rainy season. The weather condition caused the expansion of tissues around the joints. Hence, the situation aggravated joint pain for people already suffering from joint issues like arthritis.
Both doctors created miracles through their scientific understanding of the phenomenon. The duo also advised the elders to exercise regularly to reduce joint stiffness and maintain a healthy diet throughout the year. Dr. Thirumalesh K Reddy, lead consultant for joint replacement and arthroscopic surgery from Aster CMI Hospital said, “The acquainted tale of joint pain flare-up as clouds gathers and rain falls is a conversation that frequently finds its way into gatherings. While anecdotal evidence is compelling, scientific evidence backs up the link between rainy weather and joint pain. Rainy season fluctuations in barometric pressure, temperature, and humidity can have a direct effect on our joints, especially for those suffering from arthritis or other inflammatory conditions. For people who already have joint inflammation, rainy weather can aggravate it. Those suffering from arthritis may experience an increase in pain and stiffness during rainy spells. This is not a coincidence; it is based on how weather changes can affect joint health. The damp, chilly conditions can aggravate inflammation and make symptoms worse.”
The rise and fall of barometric pressure that occurs with rainy weather can have a significant impact on our joints. Joint fluid pressure changes as barometric pressure drops, potentially causing discomfort. Experts believe that fluctuating pressure can affect joint nerves and contribute to pain, according to research. Cold temperatures and joints do not mix. Lower temperatures that accompany rainy seasons can play a part to joint stiffness and sensitivity. When we are cold, our blood vessels constrict, minimising blood flow to our joints and potentially exacerbating discomfort. “High humidity levels can make your hair frizzy, but they can also cause joint inflammation. The synovial fluid that lubricates our joints is impacted by higher humidity. When this fluid is disrupted, it can cause joint inflammation and exacerbation of pain during the rainy season. Proactive measures are required to combat the rain-induced joint blues. Maintaining joint flexibility requires regular, low-impact exercise. Warm-up exercises should be performed before engaging in physical activity to loosen stiff joints. Your diet is also important; choose an anti-inflammatory diet and stay hydrated to assist joint health.”
When it rains, staying warm and dry becomes critical. Layer up to keep your joints warm, and use heating pads for added comfort. Keeping your body temperature stable can help to alleviate joint pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers and topical treatments can provide temporary relief from joint pain caused by rainy weather. Before attempting any new remedies, consult your doctor.
