The doctor spoke about the effects of magnetic storms and changes in the atmosphere on joints

Many people experience poor health during solar flares, especially difficult for those who suffer from arthritis. Mikhail Ignatov, an orthopedic traumatologist at the ORTECA network, told Izvestia about the effect of magnetic storms and atmospheric pressure fluctuations on the musculoskeletal system on February 28.

He noted that all parts of our body, including the musculoskeletal system, feed on blood. Its viscosity may increase due to magnetic storms, which, in turn, are associated with increased solar activity. In addition to them, the body is also affected by changes in atmospheric pressure.

"A person is naturally adapted to these phenomena, but sometimes they can have a strong effect on health," Ignatov emphasized.

According to him, in addition to headaches, high blood pressure and general deterioration, changes in the atmosphere can cause joint pain. If left untreated, the pain can become chronic.

"Unfortunately, it is not always possible to consult a doctor in time for injuries, initial symptoms of arthritis, osteoarthritis and osteochondrosis. This leads to a complication in the form of insufficient lubrication production, bone soreness, and, as a result, joint reactions to atmospheric pressure surges," the doctor said.

The lack of sufficient synovial fluid leads to cartilage abrasion and damage to the joint capsule. For this reason, when atmospheric pressure drops, the pain signal is "transmitted" through the blood vessels of the body directly to the damaged bone junction, Ignatov explained. So pain on the eve of outbreaks and at their peak is really possible, the doctor emphasized.

The expert advised contacting an orthopedic traumatologist for frequent pain in the musculoskeletal system and undergoing an examination for chronic diseases.

He added that at the moment of pain it is necessary to exclude hot baths and baths and any overheating of the body. According to him, this will only increase the inflammation.

In addition, the expert advised to review nutrition and increase the number of foods in the diet containing protein and calcium, use orthopedic shoes to reduce stress on joints, and in the post—traumatic period, resort to specialized orthoses - fixing devices that provide joints with a physiological position.

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On February 24, Ekaterina Demyanovskaya, Candidate of Medical Sciences, expert doctor at the Hemotest laboratory, told Izvestia how to act in case of joint pain. She recommended not to use any creams and ointments before consulting a doctor, and also not to believe in the effectiveness of home compresses and dietary supplements with collagen. Demyanovskaya advised starting with an examination and taking a C-reactive protein test to eliminate the root causes of the problem.