A noticeable increase in patient inquiries with worsening back and joint pain

With the drop in temperatures, the first rains and the high humidity, a phenomenon occurs that affects many of us. The clinic teams at Maccabi in the Northern District report that in recent days there has been a significant increase in patient inquiries due to worsening back and joint pain. Among the patients recorded are mainly those who suffer from chronic inflammation, disc herniations and recurring back pain, who feel that the pain and stiffness increase after particularly windy or humid days.

Doctors and professionals report that people who usually manage with minor pain, come these days with limited movement, have difficulty performing simple daily activities and even request immediate treatment or professional advice. Longer queues are observed in the physiotherapy and orthopedic clinics, and the staff is required to offer individual therapeutic adjustments, heating solutions, adapted exercises and changes in the patients’ activity routine.

Along with the increase in referrals, the teams emphasize the importance of immediate treatment: early treatment, warming up, moderate movement and maintaining correct posture can prevent significant worsening, and help patients maintain an active routine despite the cold and humidity.

Changes in the weather do not only affect mood and sleep. For many, especially people with arthritis, herniated discs or recurring back pain, the cold, humidity and changes in atmospheric pressure can worsen pain and limit movement. Dr. Said Darousha, an orthopedic specialist in the northern district of Maccabi Health Services, explains how to understand the phenomenon and how to reduce the effects of the weather on the body.

Changes in atmospheric pressure, temperature and humidity can cause the tissues around the joints to expand or contract. This process affects sensory nerves and connective tissues, and may intensify a feeling of pain, stiffness or swelling.

People with chronic arthritis may feel aggravation in their shoulders, knees, elbows or lower back, especially before windy or hot-humid days.

– Cold and high humidity: reduce blood flow and increase stiffness.

– Atmospheric pressure changes: a drop in pressure before a storm or rain may cause a feeling of “stretching joints”.

– Inactivity: prolonged sitting weakens muscles and puts a strain on the joints.

– Mental stress: Prolonged stress increases the feeling of pain.

• Maintaining body heat

Dressing in layers, hot baths or heating pads reduce stiffness and increase circulation.

• adapted physical activity

Walking, swimming, daily stretching and moderate strength training strengthen back muscles and reduce load on the joints.

• Maintaining correct posture

When sitting for a long time – straight back, lumbar pillow, standing up and stretching every hour.

• A diet rich in anti-inflammatory ingredients

Fish, nuts, seeds, vegetables and fruits rich in antioxidants help reduce inflammation and maintain healthy cartilage.

• Drinking and staying hydrated

Warm water and plants prevent dryness and help joints and muscles function better.

• Use of relief aids

Heating pads, warm bandages or anti-inflammatory ointments for temporary pain relief.

• Early treatment of acute pain

When sudden pain or exacerbation of chronic inflammation appears, it is important to consult a doctor. Early treatment prevents aggravation and disruption of movement.

• Local heating: heating pad for 10-15 minutes on a painful joint or lower back.
• Layers of clothing: maintaining body heat and preventing stiffness.
• Stretching every hour: hands, shoulders and back, even while sitting.
• Drinking water: to maintain tissue moisture and proper functioning of joints.
• Sitting support: waist pillows or back rests.
• Light strength exercises: 5-10 minutes daily strengthen the muscles.
• Maintain posture while standing: especially in the kitchen or while working at home.
• Distance from the cold and wind: do not sit near cold windows or open doors.
• Warm ointments or bandages: for immediate pain relief.
• Seek early treatment: severe or persistent pain requires medical advice.

Changes in the weather can make back and joint pain worse, but with proper heating, exercise, correct posture, appropriate nutrition and early treatment, you can reduce pain and maintain an active routine even on cold and rainy days.