Why You Might Not Feel Well This Friday – Saturday in IN, KY, & IL

Feeling Achy? Maybe It's the Weather

Have you ever noticed your joints feeling achy on a rainy day, but you weren't sick? Or maybe you've felt happy and full of energy when it’s sunny and 75 degrees for no particular reason at all? It turns out that the weather can actually impact how our bodies feel.

Cloudy with a Chance of Pain

A study conducted in the UK, called Cloudy with a Chance of Pain, explored how barometric pressure affected the pain levels of 712 people with osteoarthritis. The results were surprising: 69% of participants reported being sensitive to weather changes. The study found that humid, windy days with low pressure were most likely to cause increased pain, while dry, calm days with high pressure were least likely to trigger discomfort.

Read More: What is Dirty Rain, and Why Are We Getting So Much of It?

Why Does the Weather Make You Feel Like Crap?

Dr. Andrew Ehmke, a Robotic Joint Replacement Specialist from Northern Indiana, offers several theories on why joints might feel more achy when pressure is low. For people with osteoarthritis, he explains that the connective tissue in their joints expands and contracts with changes in pressure. This tissue can also thin, exposing sensitive nerve endings that pick up pressure changes. Additionally, joint fluid becomes thicker in colder weather, and the body naturally reroutes blood flow away from vital organs, which can contribute to joint pain and stiffness. The same is true for sinuses - they expand and contract with the weather, which can cause headaches.

Another factor is that colder, rainier days often keep us indoors and less active. With less movement, joint pain can worsen, especially for those with arthritis. The lack of Vitamin D, typically absorbed from sunlight, can also play a role in this discomfort.

Read More: Indiana Tornado Safety at Work, in Your Car, or Outside 

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Severe Storms Headed to the Tri-State

Looking at this week's forecast, we have a mixed bag. On the front side of the week, we will see those sunny and 75 temps with barometric pressure above 30. But Friday night, severe storms are expected to roll in. Currently, the western half of the tri-state is in an ENHANCED (level 3 of 5) threat for severe storms Friday night. A MARGINAL-SLIGHT (level 1-2 of 5) risk continues for Saturday afternoon across more of the southeast half of the tri-state.

Read More: NWS Upgrades Risk Level March 14 Storm That Will Hit IN, KY, TN

The Pain Predictor

According to Chief Meteorologist Jeff Lyons at 14 News, as a severe storm rolls in, the pressure will drop, and those affected by barometric pressure could experience some discomfort, especially around Friday evening into Saturday morning.

What Can You Do?

If you are looking for a way to be less achy, there are a few things you can do.

1. Exercise - Cardio can get your heart pumping and bring blood back to your extremities.
2. Vitamin D - If you don't take one already, start a good quality Vitamin D supplement.
3. Warm Shower or Bath - Warm water can be a great way to alleviate pain and bring blood to extremities.
4. Massage - Whether you use an at-home massager or get a professional to work on those deep knots, a good massage can work wonders on blood flow.

Read More: Evansville Massage Therapy Program Offering Free Massages to the Community