The Chilly Grip: Managing Hand Pain and Stiffness in the Autumn Weather
- Digital Fellows
- Oct 1
- 2 min read
As the leaves change and the temperatures begin to dip here in Solihull, many of us may notice an unwelcome guest: increased hand pain and stiffness. The colder weather can have a significant impact on various hand conditions, particularly arthritis and Raynaud's phenomenon.
For individuals with arthritis, the drop in temperature and barometric pressure can sometimes lead to increased joint pain and stiffness. The cold can also cause the muscles and tissues around the joints to tighten, further exacerbating discomfort.
Raynaud's phenomenon, a condition affecting blood flow to the fingers and toes, can also be triggered by cold temperatures. This can cause the fingers to turn white, then blue, and finally red, often accompanied by numbness, tingling, and pain.
Tips for Managing Hand Pain in Autumn:
Keep Your Hands Warm: Wear gloves, even indoors if necessary. Consider using hand warmers for extra comfort when you're out and about.
Moisturise Regularly: Dry skin can become more of an issue in colder weather, potentially increasing discomfort. Use a good quality hand cream to keep your skin supple.
Gentle Exercise: Continue to perform gentle hand exercises to maintain circulation and flexibility.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water can help keep your joints lubricated.
Consider Warm Compresses: Applying warm compresses to your hands can help soothe aching joints and improve circulation.
If you're finding that the autumn chill is significantly impacting your hand comfort and function, don't hesitate to seek professional advice.
Mr Shyamalan, Consultant Hand, Wrist and Elbow Surgeon at Midland Hand Clinic, specialises in diagnosing and treating a wide range of hand and wrist conditions. Don't let discomfort hold you back. Schedule a consultation with Mr Shyamalan at Midland Hand Clinic today to discuss your concerns and explore potential solutions. Submit an enquiry through our website and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
