Risk of muscle tension and cramps on cold days

(Dan Tri) - On cold days, especially during the changing seasons, many people's musculoskeletal systems become more sensitive. At Nam Sai Gon Hospital, the number of patients coming to the clinic due to pain, muscle stiffness or cramps has increased recently.

The elderly, office workers, sedentary people and people with chronic musculoskeletal diseases are the most affected groups.

According to information from Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital, recent cases often have symptoms such as knee, ankle and foot pain; shoulder, elbow and wrist pain; muscle stiffness along both legs causing discomfort at night; recurring cramps after exercise; and especially the worsening of chronic diseases such as arthritis, gout, tendonitis or osteoarthritis.

Why does cold weather cause aches and cramps?

Dr. Huynh Thi Nhu Hang, Internal Medicine Doctor, Orthopedic Doctor, Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital, said that the main cause comes from a combination of three factors: sudden temperature drop, lack of body movement and improper warming. When it is cold, blood vessels tend to constrict, causing the amount of blood supplying muscles and joints to decrease. This reduction in blood flow can lead to muscle stiffness, pain, and even cramps at night or during strenuous exercise.

The body is also more susceptible to the effects when the patient already has musculoskeletal problems. “Diseases such as arthritis, tendonitis, osteoarthritis or gout are very sensitive to changes in weather. Sudden cold can make symptoms worse, causing persistent pain and prolonged stiffness,” said Dr. Hang.

Patients should see a specialist when experiencing unusual symptoms (Photo: BVCC).

Solutions to prevent muscle tension and cramps in cold weather

Dr. Hang said that you can proactively reduce the risk of muscle tension and cramps with simple measures at home such as light exercise to warm up the body, but you should stop if you feel your muscles starting to show signs of tightness. Massage and stretch the painful muscles to increase blood circulation. Supplement electrolytes to avoid mineral imbalance - a common factor causing cramps. Keep your body warm, especially your hands, feet, knees and waist when going out. Limit caffeine and stimulants, which can increase the risk of muscle cramps.

In case of prolonged symptoms, severe pain or frequent recurrence, you should see a musculoskeletal clinic early. This could be a sign of underlying diseases such as electrolyte disturbances, tendonitis - myositis, polyarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, osteoarthritis or ankylosing spondylitis... and not just a temporary pain due to the weather.

The Orthopedic Internal Medicine Clinic at Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital is directly managed by experienced doctors, such as Dr. Huynh Thi Nhu Hang, with over 36 years of experience in the field of musculoskeletal system.

Here, patients are examined and a multi-modal conservative treatment regimen is developed, including medication, physical therapy, nutritional counseling, and a personalized rehabilitation program to improve symptoms and enhance quality of life.

South Saigon International General Hospital

Address: 88 Street No. 8, Trung Son Residential Area, Binh Hung, HCMC.

Hotline: 1800 6767

Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/BenhVienDaKhoaQuocTeNamSaiGon

Website: https://benhviennamsaigon.com/

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/suc-khoe/nguy-co-cang-co-chuot-rut-trong-ngay-lanh-20251208074559996.htm