Health in a Minute
Q. Every fall, my joints seem to get stiff and more painful. Is the weather really to blame? How can I get some relief?
A. Many people, especially those with osteoarthritis, experience increased joint stiffness or pain when the weather changes or temperatures drop. While the connection isn’t fully understood, changes in barometric pressure and humidity may contribute to discomfort. Seasonal changes can also mean changes in your activity levels. Whether you’re transitioning to a new sport or exercising indoors more often, it’s important to gradually increase activity and intensity to avoid placing too much stress on your joints. In colder weather, warm up and stretch before exercising. Staying hydrated remains important, even when you don’t feel as thirsty. Most seasonal aches and pains aren’t a cause for concern. However, persistent or worsening pain, significant swelling, instability, or difficulty with daily activities should be evaluated. A healthcare professional can identify the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
Bradford Mitchell, MD
Fellowship Trained Sports Medicine & Nonoperative Specialist, Center for Sports Medicine & Orthopaedics
Learn More: Joint Pain; All About Pain Relievers
Q. My children are grown and have their own families now, so the holidays don’t feel the way they used to. How do I adjust to this new stage of life?
A. Adjustment is the key word here, and it begins by acknowledging – to yourself and others – that things are no longer the same. It can be helpful to have open conversations with your children about what they want the holidays to look like, while also sharing what matters to you and remaining open to new ideas. Remember that holidays are often about ritual and connection, but those needs can be met in other ways, too. If a large family Christmas becomes difficult to coordinate, consider creating another opportunity to gather during the year and ask family members to protect that time with the same commitment they give to holidays. Create meaningful rituals around this gathering that foster deeper purpose and connection, while allowing your holidays to evolve into something new.
Tyler Rogers, Ph.D., LMFT, LPC, NCC
Licensed Marriage and Family Counselor, Scout Counseling
Learn More: Why Quality Family Time Matters; Coping With an Empty Nest
Q. I read that red light therapy can help combat lack of energy associated with early sunsets. Is that true?
A. Shorter days mean less sunlight, which can affect our energy, mood, and sleep – making those dark winter evenings feel even longer. While red light therapy (RLT) isn’t a replacement for natural sunlight, research has shown it supports each of these areas. Red and near-infrared light work at the cellular level to support mitochondrial function and ATP (energy-providing molecule) production – essentially helping your cells make the energy they need to perform their roles. RLT has also been shown to improve blood flow and help reduce inflammation, both of which support brain and body recovery. The result? Potential benefits for energy, mood, sleep, and recovery to help you beat that winter slump.
Stephanie Moore, PharmD
Clinical Pharmacist,
Designer Drugs Labs
Learn More: Red Light Therapy With Prism Light Pods
Q. Fall is my favorite season and I want to enjoy it, but I suffered a hip fracture. Can I still enjoy my favorite fall activities while I’m recovering?
A. The seasonal shift may feel different if you’ve recently suffered a hip fracture and are worried about getting around safely. Fall has a beautiful way of inviting you to slow down and be reminded that rest is a natural part of healing and recovery. Depending on your physical limitations and precautions, your favorite fall activities may need to be modified. Finding simple, meaningful activities that keep you active and safe outdoors may include short walks on flat surfaces, visiting parks with family and friends, and gardening from a raised chair. Avoid uneven trails, wet leaves, slippery sidewalks, and crowded areas where falls are more likely. You can also enjoy sweater weather from the comfort of your home by watching the leaves change shades and enjoying the crisp air on your porch, reading, baking, watching football games, and spending time with loved ones.
Ashley Wright
Occupational Therapist, Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital
Learn More: Fractures; Hip Arthroscopy
Q. My vitamin D levels are normal, but I have a history of low levels. How can I make sure I’m getting enough, especially during the fall and winter seasons?
A. In someone with a corrected prior deficiency, ongoing maintenance supplementation would be the recommendation to keep vitamin D levels normal. A prior low level would likely mean that there is a good chance one would not stay replete through sun exposure and diet alone, especially in the winter months. A daily supplement of 600-1000 IU/day would likely be sufficient. At the end of the day, if you have this concern, please talk to your doctor for personalized next steps, recommendations, and ongoing lab monitoring.
Chris Choe, MD
Family Medicine Physician, Galen North Internal Medicine
Learn More: Decoding the Science of Vitamin D
Meet the Author
Lindsey Clute, BA
Lindsey Clute is a graduate of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications with a minor in international studies. Prior to joining CMC Media & Marketing Group as editor/digital content specialist, Lindsey worked in digital marketing, managing social media accounts and supporting various marketing initiatives. Additionally, she worked as an editorial intern for a local media group. Today, Lindsey leads ideation, conceptualization, and development of numerous lifestyle, business, sports, and health & wellness articles published in print and online for HealthScope® and CityScope® magazines as well as Choose Chattanooga® and Choose Huntsville® – premier publications serving Southeast Tennessee, North Georgia, and North Alabama. She also contributes to the development of content shared on the publications’ digital platforms. Outside of the office, Lindsey enjoys being outside/in the water as much as possible, planning new travel adventures and side quests, and sipping a latte at one of Chattanooga’s aesthetic coffee shops.
