Cold Weather is Still the Time to Get Active: The Arthritis Foundation Recommends Movement to Ease Joint Pain and Stiffness through Colder Months

As temperatures drop and winter holidays approach, many Americans have a tendency to be less active and put on extra pounds. Contrary to old myths, cold weather does not cause arthritis, but for some people it can make the symptoms more noticeable. The Arthritis Foundation recommends regular physical activity, such as walking, as an important way to manage the pain and stiffness of arthritis through the winter months.

Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) November 17, 2008 -- As temperatures drop and winter holidays approach, many Americans have a tendency to be less active and put on extra pounds. Contrary to old myths, cold weather does not cause arthritis, but for some people it can make the symptoms more noticeable. The Arthritis Foundation recommends regular physical activity, such as walking, as an important way to manage the pain and stiffness of arthritis through the winter months.

"Physical activity is a simple, inexpensive pain relief option for most people suffering from arthritis," said Patience White, M.D., chief public health officer, Arthritis Foundation. "Walking just 10 minutes, three times a day can ease joint pain, improve mobility and reduce fatigue often associated with arthritis."

In addition to easing the pain of arthritis, physical activity can also help avoid weight gain, another common problem during winter months. With holiday events and celebrations, many Americans overeat. The lack of activity and improper diet lead to other common problems like obesity.

"The prevalence of obesity continues to rise, even though it can often be prevented by staying active through simple activities such as walking," said White. "A weight loss of 15 pounds can decrease the pain due to osteoarthritis by 50 percent."

Throughout November and December, the Arthritis Foundation offers families and friends the opportunity to start a tradition of fitness. In more than 100 communities around the country, the Foundation hosts its Jingle Bell Run/Walk event, nationally sponsored for the second year by ThermaCare® Arthritis HeatWraps. Each year, tens of thousands of people take part in these holiday-themed events by donning festive costumes and taking to the streets to raise funds and educate others about the health benefits of physical activity. To sign up for a Jingle Bell Run/Walk event, visit www.arthritis.org or contact your local Arthritis Foundation chapter.

About the Arthritis Foundation

The Arthritis Foundation is the leading health organization addressing the needs of some 46 million Americans living with arthritis, the nation's most common cause of disability. Founded in 1948, with headquarters in Atlanta, the Arthritis Foundation has multiple service points located throughout the country. The Arthritis Foundation is the largest private, not-for-profit contributor to arthritis research in the world, funding more than $380 million in research grants since 1948. Celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, the foundation helps individuals take control of arthritis by providing public health education; pursuing public policy and legislation; and conducting evidence-based programs to improve the quality of life for those living with arthritis. Information is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-800-283-7800 or www.arthritis.org.

About ThermaCare® Arthritis HeatWraps

ThermaCare Arthritis Heat Wraps are air-activated heat wraps designed to provide 12 hours of soothing heat for pain relief. The pain relief provided by ThermaCare lasts all day. The product is recommended for anyone who suffers from minor osteoarthritis pain or occasional arthritis flare-ups. ThermaCare Arthritis Heat Wraps are available in three versions - the hand & wrist, knee & elbow and neck & shoulders - each specifically designed for a comfortable fit on common arthritis pain sites.

ThermaCare is owned and distributed by Wyeth Consumer Healthcare. To learn more about ThermaCare and how it can assist with arthritis flare-up pain, log on to www.thermacare.com

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