The holiday season brings many magical moments, decorating with loved ones, shopping for the perfect gift, and gathering in the kitchen with friends and family. But if you’re living with joint pain, these cherished activities can feel more like obstacles than celebrations.
We understand. At Orthopedic & Wellness in Frederick, Waldorf, and Germantown, Maryland, Dr. Ojedapo Ojeyemi has seen how joint pain can make it hard to enjoy this festive time of the year. But with the right care and treatment plan, you can take control of your discomfort so it doesn’t derail your holiday plans.
Before you can manage your pain effectively, it’s important to know what’s causing it. Joint pain has many sources, including:
Depending on the cause, you may get relief by modifying activity, taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or doing exercises that strengthen supportive muscles. But your go-to pain relievers may not be effective enough during the holidays with all the hustle and bustle.
Plus, the weather may intensify your discomfort. Research suggests that dropping temperatures may worsen osteoarthritis pain. It’s unclear why cold weather exacerbates your knee pain, but scientists theorize that it may have something to do with barometric pressure, a decrease in blood flow, and inactivity.
Good nutrition, regular exercise, and consistent sleep are your holiday survival kit, serving as the foundation for health and wellness. When celebrations disrupt your routine, your joints pay the price.
Combat inflammation by filling your plate with berries, salmon, and leafy greens alongside your holiday favorites. These nutrient-rich foods contain anti-inflammatory compounds that benefit your body and your joints.
Keep moving, even if it’s only a walk around the block. Movement keeps your joints flexible and the supportive muscles strong.
Don’t skimp on sleep. Your body needs that recovery time to repair tissue and prepare for tomorrow’s festivities.
These healthy habits also help you manage holiday stress, which can trigger pain flare-ups.
Shopping, cooking, and gift wrapping can stress the joints, but a few simple adjustments can make a huge difference.
Prevent or minimize hip pain, knee pain, and back pain when shopping by investing in supportive footwear and taking breaks at regular intervals. Those shoes may also help minimize discomfort when you’re on your feet in the kitchen for extended periods, or you can invest in an anti-fatigue mat.
For gift wrapping, set up an ergonomic workstation that allows you to sit comfortably with supplies within arm’s reach. Better yet, enlist help from your family or utilize gift-wrapping services at stores or online retailers.
Most importantly, listen to your body. When pain starts creeping in, it’s time to take action.
Don’t work through the pain. After busy holiday activities, give your joints a little extra attention with rest, ice, and elevation. Take NSAIDs or other over-the-counter pain relievers when the discomfort starts interfering with your plans.
But if your current joint pain management strategy isn’t working, it’s time to reach out for help. At Orthopedic & Wellness, we specialize in creating personalized plans that address your unique needs so you can enjoy the season without constant discomfort.
Ready to reclaim your holidays? Call us today or click the online booking button to schedule an appointment with our experts.
