Summer Sports and ACL Injuries — What Athletes Should Know
With longer days and increased enthusiasm come higher risk for injuries. Is there anything you can do to prevent that? Read on to find out.
Why Your Knee Pain Feels Worse in Hot Weather
Are your knees more accurate than the weather channel?
Sudden changes in temperature and air pressure are often felt in the joints. While colder weather can lead to stiffness and discomfort, hot weather can worsen pain. Understanding why these changes occur can help you develop a plan to alleviate the symptoms and enjoy the beautiful weather without worrying about your knees.
To help you out, we asked our expert, Dr. Thomas Kane III, to discuss how hot weather affects the knees and what can be done about it.
Dehydration may worsen pain
High temperatures can lead to excess sweating and dehydration, which reduces the fluid that cushions your joints. When the natural lubrication in the knee decreases, friction within the joint increases, leading to inflammation and discomfort. Always carry a water bottle, and consider adding electrolytes to maintain proper hydration. Salt is an electrolyte, and adding a pinch to your water can help.
Humidity may cause swelling
Humidity can make things worse by causing your tissues to expand and retain fluid. This may increase pressure in and around the joint, especially in already inflamed knees. Combined with dehydration, humid weather can throw your joint balance off and make everyday movement painful.
Wearing loose, breathable fabrics that don’t cling to the skin, such as cotton and linen, can help you stay cool and dry.
Heat cramps may occur
Heat cramps are muscle spasms caused by a loss of essential minerals like sodium and potassium. These electrolytes regulate muscle function, and when lost through sweat, your knee and leg muscles may cramp up or become fatigued, adding to joint strain.
These cramps may appear suddenly, especially during or after physical activity. Stretching, staying hydrated, and replenishing electrolytes quickly can help soothe muscle tension before it escalates.
If you have knee issues and want to play a sport during the summer, ensure you have access to water with electrolytes and, preferably, opt for indoor facilities that are cooler.
Get help for your knees
While home remedies may provide temporary relief, persistent or worsening knee pain should never be ignored. The right treatment can slow down the progression of the disease and significantly increase the quality of life.
Want to learn what’s behind your symptoms? Contact us to schedule an appointment in our office located in Honolulu, Hawaii. Depending on the source of your pain and the severity of your symptoms, Dr. Kane may recommend joint injections for lubrication, targeted anti-inflammatory therapy, or minimally invasive surgery if necessary to repair damage and protect your knees in the long term. Dr. Kane also has the most training and experience in the state of Hawaii in performing total knee replacements if severe arthritis has developed.
You Might Also Enjoy...
Is Your Shoulder Pain a Rotator Cuff Tear?
Is combing your hair or reaching out causing pain in your shoulder? Are you waking up at night to shoulder pain? Learn about the possible causes, including a rotator cuff tear, and available treatments.
Is Knee Arthroscopy Right for Your Meniscus Tear?
Traditional surgery involves a longer hospital stay, larger scars, and a higher risk of complications. But can a less invasive surgical procedure take its place? Let’s explore knee arthroscopy.
How to Identify a Hip Labrum Tear
Do you feel pain in your hip? Or perhaps hear a clicking noise when you're on the go? It could be a sign of a labrum tear—a tear in your hip cartilage. Learn more about the signs and the treatment options available.
What is Visco-Supplementation?
Do you suffer from pain, aches, and stiffness in your joints? Learn how a simple injection can relieve your pain and improve your mobility.
When Do I Need Revision Joint Replacement?
Joint replacements typically last 10 to 15 years—sometimes even less. Like your natural joints, prosthetics can undergo wear and tear and may eventually need to be replaced. Learn the signs that you may need a revision joint replacement.