[Hinews] As temperatures climb above 95°F day after day, air conditioning usage has surged. But for those with arthritis or chronic pain, such cooling can pose health risks, calling for caution.

Prolonged stays in intensely air-conditioned areas like offices, subways or malls can cause aching, stiffness and sharper pain in key joints such as shoulders, neck and knees. Moderate cooling might be bearable, but drafts cold enough to chill can extend discomfort to the neck and head, sometimes leading to headaches.

Experts attribute this to cold air raising pressure inside joints and intensifying inflammation. Dr. Jun-seok Park, an orthopedic surgeon and director of Miraebon Hospital, said, “Lower barometric pressure combined with cold air increases intra-articular pressure, worsening swelling in inflamed spots and amplifying pain.” He added that these issues now arise often in summer, not only winter.

Image caption: Strong summer air conditioning can aggravate joint pain, underscoring the need for temperature, humidity control and preventive steps. (Clip Art Korea)
Image caption: Strong summer air conditioning can aggravate joint pain, underscoring the need for temperature, humidity control and preventive steps. (Clip Art Korea)

Korea's hot, humid summers add extra burden to joints. High humidity disrupts synovial structures, and shifts in barometric pressure foster conditions that elevate internal pressure and trigger pain.

Seek prompt care if symptoms go beyond fleeting aches, such as shoulder and neck stiffness lasting over a week after cold exposure, inner knee pain in cross-legged positions, or quick knee fatigue while walking.

Dr. Park warned that delaying attention to pain might result in shoulder adhesions or cervical disc disorders. He stressed, “Instead of self-diagnosis, consult a specialist to pinpoint the cause and pursue proper treatment.”

Indoor Temperature and Humidity: Everyday Habits for Joint Protection
Experts urge managing temperature and humidity to preserve joint health through summer. Keep indoor-outdoor differences within 9°F, aiming for about 77°F indoors. Overly cold air from conditioning can plummet body temperature, weakening immunity and hindering blood flow.

Humidity oversight matters too. For joint pain relief, hold levels below 50% via ventilation, charcoal or dehumidifiers.

Daily precautions include stashing thin long-sleeved shirts for air-conditioned spots to shield shoulders and arms from drafts. Socks help warm feet, aiding peripheral circulation and easing coldness.

Summer use of small heat packs or scarves works well. A five-minute heat pack application on stiff areas dilates vessels for brief pain reduction. A scarf around neck and shoulders blocks direct cooling from air currents.

If symptoms persist or hinder routine, explore treatments like arthroscopic capsular release, intra-articular injections, ultrasound-guided bursa injections or prolotherapy for ligament strengthening. Arthroscopic capsular release stands out for frozen shoulder cases, using intra-articular drugs to enhance motion and cut pain.

Dr. Park noted, “Addressing joint pain early is key,” and recommended hospital visits for lingering issues, as basic procedures can swiftly ease symptoms.

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