Cold Weather and Joint Health: What to Expect

If you’ve been living in Duluth for a while, you know a thing or two about winter…snow piles up, the wind cuts right through your coat, and suddenly your knees, hips, or hands feel stiffer than usual. You’re not imagining it! Cold weather really can make joint pain worse. 

Let’s talk about why this happens and what you can do to feel a little more comfortable this winter.

Why Does Cold Weather Affect Joints?

The connection between weather and joint pain isn’t completely understood, but there are a few likely explanations:

• Barometric pressure changes: Shifts in air pressure can cause tissues in the body and around your joints to expand or contract. This can increase discomfort and soreness in sensitive joints.
  
• Cold temperatures: Lower temps can reduce blog flow and cause muscles and tissues to tighten up, making your joints feel stiffer.
  
• Reduced activity: Shorter days, icy sidewalks, and a consistent chill in the air often means people move less in the winter. Less activity and movement often leads to weaker muscles and stiffer joints.

Who Feels It Most?

• People with arthritis often notice their symptoms worsen during the winter months.
  
• Anyone with a history of joint injuries may feel more stiffness when it’s cold.
  
• Even folks without joint problems may notice some discomfort, especially in their hands, knees, and hips.

Simple Ways to Easy Joint Aches

While we can’t control the Duluth weather, there are steps you can take to keep your joints more comfortable all winter long:

1. Bundle up and stay warm: Hats, gloves, warm socks, and cozy layers go a long way in keeping joints comfortable. Also, remember to keep your home well heated.
   
2. Keep moving: Gentle exercises like walking, swimming, or indoor stretching help maintain flexibility and strength – loosening up stiff joints.
   
3. Use heat therapy: Heating pads, warm baths, or even a warm cup of tea while wrapped in a cozy blanket can relax stiff muscles.
   
4. Stay active indoors: When it’s too cold, snowy, or icy to be outside, swap outdoor activities to relaxing yoga, light strength training, or resistance bands at home.
   
5. Drink water: Hydration matters year-round, even when you’re not sweating.

When to Seek Help

Some stiffness in the winter is normal, but if your joint pain is persistent, worsening, or limiting your daily activities, it may be time to talk with a medical professional to help you find relief and keep moving – no matter what the Duluth winter throws your way.