Kuldip Bhatia,Ludhiana, December 21

Low temperature during winter is a major reason for increased pains in the joints and bones, as the body tends to circulate less blood to peripheral areas towards the requirement of conserving warm blood around the heart.Dr NK Aggarwal, Chief Consultant at the Joint and Spine Centre while addressing an expert advice session here said: “With the onset of winter, joint pain is inevitable. One needs to take extra care of one’s joints and bones when the temperature drops as the cold weather can exacerbate joint pain and cause serious problems if left unattended.”“Joints become inflexible, which leads to pain. Joints need exercise as it helps in lubricating it to prevent pain. Bring your workout indoors and don’t overdo it. Choose low-impact aerobic moves that are easy on joints, such as walking and yoga or tai chi, which enhance your range of motion. Lifting weights can also help because it builds joint-supporting muscles,” he said.Dr Aggarwal advised that caffeine-fuelled drinks be swapped with water, adding that diluted juice as alcohol, tea, coffee, cola and other fizzy drinks reduce the amount of calcium absorption and weaken bones.“Other things that may help include over the counter painkillers, such as paracetamol, aspirin or ibuprofen. TENS pain relief units can offer temporary relief from mild pain. One can also stock knee supports, joint patches and gels, deep freeze cold spray and heat sprays,” he said.

Things to do

• Follow a healthy diet by including plenty of fruits, vegetables, pulses, cereals and dairy products
• It is important for joint and knee patients to indulge in foods rich in Vitamin K, D and C, as they play an important role in the production of cartilage and help the body absorb calcium for stronger bones. Include oranges, spinach, cabbage and tomatoes in your diet
• Lose weight for the knees, as knees take three to four times your body weight when you walk
• Warm baths are beneficial for keeping your joints warm as well as relieving stiffness and pain caused by arthritis
• Adequate supply of calcium and vitamin D for healthy bones. In the absence of natural sunlight, you could take calcium and vitamin D supplements for a few months