blog-details
20
Dec
লিখেছেন ~ "Umesbah11"

শীতকালে ব্যথা কেন বাড়ে এবং কী করবেন

In winter, many people suffer from knee and joint pain due to cold weather. In a cold environment, the tissues surrounding the muscles and joints contract, which increases pressure on the joints. At the same time, cold causes blood vessels to constrict, reducing blood circulation. As a result, the synovial fluid inside the joints becomes thicker and nerve sensitivity increases. These physiological changes place stress on the joints and muscles, and if a person already has arthritis or neurological problems, the pain becomes more severe. In addition, physical activity decreases during winter, which makes muscles weak and stiff. According to experts, when muscle contraction increases in cold temperatures, muscles cannot relax on their own, leading to increased spasticity. Due to these muscular changes, pain in the knees, lower back, wrists, and shoulders commonly increases during winter.

Ways to Reduce Pain in Winter

  • Keep the body warm: Wear adequate warm clothing and socks during winter, especially covering the knees, waist, and wrists. Use heaters or blankets at home to maintain body warmth.
  • Hot compression and warm bathing: Applying hot packs or using warm water on painful areas helps relieve pain. Taking a warm bath in the morning or at night helps relax the muscles.
  • Exercise and walking: Regular light stretching, yoga, or walking for 10–20 minutes helps maintain joint flexibility and improves blood circulation, thereby reducing pain. Stretching the muscles after waking up is also beneficial.
  • Hydration: People tend to drink less water in winter, but inadequate hydration can make muscles stiffer.
  • Balanced diet: Consuming omega-3 fatty acids (fish, nuts), anti-inflammatory foods (turmeric, ginger, garlic, vegetables), and calcium-rich dairy products regularly helps reduce inflammation and maintain joint health. Due to reduced sunlight exposure in winter, vitamin D deficiency may occur; therefore, vitamin D supplements may be taken according to a physician’s advice.
  • Physiotherapy and medication: For chronic or severe pain, consult a physiotherapy professional. Physiotherapy treatment includes manual therapy and specific exercises that help maintain joint elasticity.

By following the above measures, winter-related pain can be largely controlled.

Special Care for MSD, Stroke, and CP Patients

Extra caution is required during winter for individuals with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), stroke, or cerebral palsy. Many patients with cerebral palsy or stroke experience excessive muscle tightness (spasticity). International research has shown that cold weather can further increase muscle tightness in these patients. As a result, the muscles of the arms and legs become stiffer than usual, especially in the morning at the start of the day. Additionally, reduced neural function in cold conditions may cause increased neuropathic pain and abnormal muscle activity in stroke patients. Therefore, these patients should wear warm clothing regularly during winter, keep necessary medications with them, and seek timely advice from a physiotherapist. Gentle stretching of the head, neck, and limbs in the morning or at night, regular water intake, and avoiding excessive cold are essential.

For stroke patients, maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature is extremely important. In cases of post-surgical patients or those who are bedridden for long periods, warm blankets or heaters should be used to maintain body temperature.

By understanding the body’s natural changes during winter and taking appropriate precautions, pain can be significantly reduced. Common misconceptions about winter pain (such as “cold causes rheumatism” or reliance on spiritual healing) have no scientific basis. Therefore, during winter, ensure regular use of warm clothing, exercise, nutritious food, and timely medical care. However, if pain becomes severe, joints swell, fever develops, or numbness occurs in the limbs, it is essential to consult a physiotherapy professional promptly.

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