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[Bezzy Psoriasis](https://www.bezzypsoriasis.com/?utm_source=mnt&utm_medium=nav-bar-connect) ### Follow Us Subscribe # How to stop joint pain when it rains  [Medically reviewed]() by [Nancy Carteron, M.D., FACR]() — Written by [Zia Sherrell, MPH]() on March 11, 2024 - [Joint pain and rain](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-to-stop-joint-pain-when-it-rains#joint-pain-and-rain) - [Minimising pain](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-to-stop-joint-pain-when-it-rains#minimising-pain) - [Other joint pain treatments](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-to-stop-joint-pain-when-it-rains#other-joint-pain-treatments) - [Summary](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-to-stop-joint-pain-when-it-rains#summary) Rain may trigger joint pain. It is likely due to changes in barometric pressure, humidity, and temperature, though the exact cause is uncertain. Joint pain is common among individuals with arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions. Many people find it worsens with changes in weather, particularly during rainy periods. Although not fully understood, this phenomenon may relate to changes in barometric pressure, which can cause expansion and contraction in the tissues surrounding joints, leading to pain. Managing this weather-related discomfort requires a multifaceted approach, including lifestyle modifications, medication, and physical therapy. This article looks at how to stop joint pain when it rains and other treatments for joint pain. ## [Stopping joint pain when it rains]()  [Share on Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.medicalnewstoday.com%2Farticles%2Fhow-to-stop-joint-pain-when-it-rains&media=https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.post.rvohealth.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F3%2F2024%2F03%2Fpain-rain-GettyImages-1184153861-Header-1024x575.jpg&description=Joint%20pain%20and%20rain%3A%20Causes%2C%20treatment%2C%20and%20more "Share on Pinterest") janiecbros/Getty Images People can take proactive steps to reduce inflammation and improve joint health, which may stop joint pain during weather changes. These measures [include](https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/managing-pain/pain-relief-solutions/tips-to-ease-joint-pain): - **Maintain a moderate weight:** Extra weight puts additional pressure on joints, especially those that bear the body’s weight, such as the hips, knees, and ankles. Losing weight can reduce this pressure and decrease pain. - **Stay active:** Regular, low impact exercise such as swimming, walking, or [yoga](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/286745) can strengthen the muscles around the joints, increase flexibility, and reduce pain. - **Heat therapy:** Applying warm compresses or taking warm baths can help relax tense muscles and alleviate pain. - **Hydration:** Drinking plenty of water helps keep the joints lubricated, reducing friction and pain. [Learn more about joint pain.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/joint-pain) ### Why does pain occur when it rains? The exact reason why joint pain worsens with rainy weather is not entirely apparent, but [several theories exist](https://creakyjoints.org/support/pain-management/weather-and-arthritis/): - **Barometric pressure:** A drop in atmospheric pressure often precedes rain. This change may cause joint tissues to expand, increasing pressure within the joint and exacerbating pain. - **Humidity:** High humidity levels can lead to swelling in the joint spaces, increasing pain. - **Temperature changes:** Cold, damp conditions may also tighten the muscles around joints, leading to increased pain. A large [2019 study](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/336773891_How_the_weather_affects_the_pain_of_citizen_scientists_using_a_smartphone_app) followed 2,658 participants over 15 months. These individuals had various pain conditions, predominantly [arthritis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/7621). They recorded symptom information on a smartphone app in real time while scientists tracked the weather at their location using GPS data. Analysis of this data revealed a clear correlation between pain and variables such as relative humidity, air pressure, and wind speed, with no marked correlation between pain and temperature changes. Conversely, a [2015 study](https://www.jrheum.org/content/42/10/1885.long) with 810 participants with [osteoarthritis in the knee](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/bilateral-knee-osteoarthritis), hand, or hip demonstrated that daily average humidity and temperature significantly influenced pain levels. These findings suggest that individual susceptibility to weather-related joint pain varies, and other factors, such as age or overall health, may play a role. [Learn more about seasonal arthritis pain.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/seasonal-change-rheumatoid-arthritis) ## [Minimising weather-related joint pain]() People can help minimize the impact of weather on joint pain by considering the following strategies: - **Dress warmly:** Keeping the body warm can prevent the tightening of muscles around the joints. Layering clothing helps maintain body heat. - **Stay dry:** Moisture can exacerbate feelings of cold and discomfort. Using waterproof clothing and staying indoors during heavy rain can help manage symptoms. - **Supplements:** Some supplements, [such as](https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/treatment/complementary-therapies/supplements-and-vitamins/vitamins-supplements-arthritis) omega-3 fatty acids, [glucosamine](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/265748), and chondroitin, may help reduce joint inflammation and pain. However, consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement. - **Plan ahead:** Being aware of weather changes can help people prepare and manage their activities, reducing the likelihood of pain flare-ups. ## [Other treatments for joint pain]() In addition to lifestyle changes and home remedies, other treatments for managing joint pain [include](https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/pain/joint-pain-management.htm): - **Medications:** Over-the-counter pain relievers such as [ibuprofen and naproxen](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325793) can reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. In some cases, a person may require stronger prescription medications. NSAIDs that are similar to ibuprofen and naproxen are also available in topicals, such as [Voltaren](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/voltaren-otc) (diclofenac). - **Joint injections:** Direct injections directly into the joint space can relieve severe cases. These may include [corticosteroids](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/corticosteroids) to quickly reduce inflammation or [hyaluronic acid](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326385) to lubricate the joints, improving mobility and reducing pain. - **Physical therapy:** A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program to strengthen the muscles around joints, increase flexibility, and reduce pain. - **[Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/296579):** This psychological therapy helps people identify and modify the behavioral and emotional triggers that can cause pain. Additionally, alternative and complementary therapies [may significantly](https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/osteoarthritis-in-depth#:~:text=Acupuncture%20may%20help%20relieve%20osteoarthritis,in%20people%20with%20knee%20osteoarthritis.) relieve joint pain for some. For example, [acupuncture](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/156488) may reduce pain and improve function for individuals with osteoarthritis, and massage therapy can relax tense muscles and improve circulation. Furthermore, practices like [tai chi](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/265507) offer gentle, meditative exercises that can improve balance, flexibility, and strength, reducing the risk of falls and associated joint injuries. ## [Summary]() Joint pain during rainy weather is common among individuals with arthritis and other joint conditions. While the exact cause of this phenomenon remains unclear, strategies for managing and reducing this type of pain are well-documented. These include maintaining an active lifestyle, applying heat therapy, staying hydrated, and consulting healthcare professionals for tailored treatment plans. By adopting a proactive approach to wellness, individuals can significantly alleviate the discomfort associated with weather-related joint pain, improving overall quality of life. - [Pain / Anesthetics](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/pain) ### How we reviewed this article: Sources Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our [editorial policy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/process). - Arthritis and joint pain management. (2022). <https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/pain/joint-pain-management.htm> - Dixon WG, et al. (2019). How the weather affects the pain of citizen scientists using a smartphone app. <https://www.researchgate.net/publication/336773891_How_the_weather_affects_the_pain_of_citizen_scientists_using_a_smartphone_app> - Osteoarthritis: In depth. (2016). <https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/osteoarthritis-in-depth> - Timmermans EJ, et al. (2015). The influence of weather conditions on joint pain in older people with osteoarthritis: Results from the European Project on Osteoarthritis. <https://www.jrheum.org/content/42/10/1885.long> - Tips to ease joint pain. (n.d.). <https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/managing-pain/pain-relief-solutions/tips-to-ease-joint-pain> - Weather and arthritis. (n.d.). <https://creakyjoints.org/support/pain-management/weather-and-arthritis> - Vitamins and supplements for arthritis. (n.d.). <https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/treatment/complementary-therapies/supplements-and-vitamins/vitamins-supplements-arthritis> Share this article  [Medically reviewed]() by [Nancy Carteron, M.D., FACR]() — Written by [Zia Sherrell, MPH]() on March 11, 2024 ## Latest news - [Moving just 5 more minutes each day could boost longevity](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/moving-just-5-more-minutes-each-day-could-boost-longevity) - [New Mount Sinai AI tool aims to improve access to cancer clinical trials](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/mount-sinai-ai-tool-aims-to-improve-access-to-cancer-clinical-trials) - [Early menopause not linked to higher diabetes risk, study finds](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/early-menopause-not-linked-higher-type-2-diabetes-risk) - [HRT does not increase dementia risk in women, review finds](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/hrt-does-not-increase-dementia-risk-in-women) - [Is ChatGPT the future of AI medical advice? 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It involves a series of exercises for which a person gets points. Find out more.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/beighton-score?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/beighton-score?utm_source=ReadNext) © 2026 Healthline Media UK Ltd, London, UK. All rights reserved. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. 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