Why does altitude change affect arthritis?

Answer 1

Experience at 8200 feetI'm afraid I don't know why altitude helped my Arthritis, but after just camping for two weeks in the Big Horn Mountains near Buffalo, Wyoming, at about 8200 feet, I can say with certainty that it did.

At home, near St. Louis, Mo which is at about 650 feet, I regularly experienced pain in my neck and back and frequently in my knee and hands. After the first week in the mountains, I noticed that I was waking pain free and able to go hiking without any discomfoort. It was great!

The first night out of the mountains we stayed at around 1400 feet. I woke that night with all of my joints hurting. Now at home it is just back to before we left.

I wonder if moving to the mountains would alleviate my pain permanently?

Answer 2

There seems to be some anecdotal evidence that the weather effects the people that have arthritis's, especially those with osteoarthritis's. however there is no definite medical proof that this is the case. and perhaps the effects are different for different people.

Answer 3

There is no evidence that that is the case; however, there is no evidence that the contrary is the case either. Arthritis treatment is filled with a myriad of myths and methods, and it seems that what works for one does not work for another. Add to this that there are more then 100 different forms of arthritis, and you have a lot of confusion on your hands.

Answer 4

I have RA and have never noticed any difference.

Answer 5

At higher altitudes, there's less barometric pressure, which causes bodies to expand. This expansion can increase joint pain, especially in those with arthritis.

Answer 6

No. You should be fine to travel on a plane with osteoarthritis.

Answer 7

It does not.