Spending extended periods in strongly air-conditioned environments—such as offices, malls, or subway cars—can aggravate joint symptoms, particularly in the shoulders, neck, and knees. While mild cooling is often tolerable, direct exposure to cold drafts may increase discomfort and even trigger tension headaches in some individuals.
Experts explain that cold air and fluctuating atmospheric pressure can raise intra-articular pressure, intensifying joint inflammation. Dr. Jun-seok Park, orthopedic surgeon at Miraebon Hospital, noted, "When lower barometric pressure is coupled with exposure to cold air, it can increase swelling in already inflamed joints, amplifying pain."
He added that such complaints are now increasingly common during summer, not just in winter. South Korea’s hot, humid climate can place additional strain on joints. High humidity affects synovial fluid function and, together with fluctuations in barometric pressure, contributes to increased joint stiffness and pain.
Dr. Park cautioned that ignoring persistent joint pain could lead to complications such as adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) or cervical disc herniation. "Rather than relying on self-diagnosis, consult a specialist to identify the root cause and begin appropriate treatment," he advised.
Indoor Temperature and Humidity: Everyday Habits for Joint Protection
Experts recommend managing indoor temperature and humidity to protect joint health during the summer. Aim to keep the temperature difference between indoor and outdoor spaces within 9°F, ideally maintaining indoor temperatures around 77°F. Excessively cold environments may lower core body temperature, impair circulation, and weaken immune defenses.
Controlling humidity is equally important. To ease joint symptoms, maintain indoor humidity levels below 50% using adequate ventilation, dehumidifiers, or moisture-absorbing materials like charcoal.
Protective habits include carrying a light long-sleeved layer to wear in overly cool environments, shielding vulnerable joints from direct airflow. Wearing socks indoors can help keep extremities warm and support healthy blood circulation.
Portable heat packs or scarves can help relieve joint discomfort. Applying a warm compress for about five minutes to affected areas helps dilate blood vessels and reduce stiffness. Scarves worn around the neck and shoulders act as barriers against cold drafts.
For persistent or mobility-limiting joint pain, consult a specialist about options such as arthroscopic capsular release, corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections, ultrasound-guided bursa injections, or prolotherapy to strengthen ligaments. Arthroscopic capsular release, particularly effective for frozen shoulder, involves minimally invasive techniques to release joint adhesions and restore movement.
Dr. Park noted, “Addressing joint pain early is key,” and recommended hospital visits for lingering issues, as basic procedures can swiftly ease symptoms.
Lim Hye Jung, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM
press@hinews.co.kr
