Although many people assume it’s a myth, the climate in which you live can have an impact on your chronic pain. In this article, we will talk about how weather and climate can affect your pain, and some of the best areas to live if you are in chronic pain.

How Weather & Climate Impact Pain

You may have heard your grandpa complain about knee pain when it gets cold or right before a storm. It’s been parodied in movies, tv, books, etc. for decades, and many people assume it’s just an old wives tale (i.e. not true).

But the truth is that cold weather can lead to an increase in joint pain. Changes in air pressure can also lead to headaches and pain in the joints – especially in people who suffer from arthritis or chronic pain conditions.

Knowing that, you may assume that warm weather climates are the best for people who suffer from chronic pain. Many older patients do migrate to warmer climates when they retire, and one of those reasons is often to ease their chronic joint pain. However, there are many other considerations you need to take into account before packing up your life and moving.

Other Considerations

Of course, weather should not be your sole criteria when you are considering a move to lessen your pain. Family, friends, work, and other considerations should take precedent. One of the most important things you need in the fight against chronic pain is a pain management doctor who understands your condition. If you already have a trusted pain doctor in your area, that may be reason enough to stay put (even if you live in a frozen tundra like Minnesota). A great doctor in a cold climate is better than a bad doctor in a warm climate.

If you have any questions about how to treat your chronic pain, contact a pain management physician as soon as possible. At Advanced Spine & Pain Clinics of MN, our board-certified pain doctors have been treating Minnesotans with all manner of pain conditions for over 20 years. Call our office today to set up your appointment.