Have you ever heard someone say that they can feel the weather in their bones?

Perhaps they know a storm is coming because their hip is aching. Or maybe someone has said that their knee tipped them off that a cold front is on the way.

It’s not just an old wives’ tale. It’s actually a very real phenomenon, and people really can feel the weather changing.

If you experience this phenomenon, you likely already have arthritis or other musculoskeletal issues. When you “feel the weather in your bones,” what you’re actually feeling is the change in atmospheric pressure that causes weather events.

The change in pressure can cause your joints to swell up, adding pressure on nerve receptors in the lining of your joint, leading to discomfort and pain.

If you’re predicting the weather in your bones, aka experiencing the discomfort, pain, and tightness that comes along with atmospheric pressure changes, it’s important to get up and move. Sitting still will likely make it worse.

Try taking some pain relief medicine or another anti-inflammatory medication, and then do some stretches to help your discomfort. Also, try to stay ahead of the game. Regular stretching and staying active will help keep your muscles, tendons, and ligaments from seizing up.