Why Your Joints Hurt More in Cold Weather And What You Can Do About It

Why Cold Weather Makes Joint Pain Worse

If your knees, hips, or shoulders ache more when the temperature drops, you’re not imagining it.
Many adults especially those over 50 feel increased stiffness and pain during Buffalo’s cold winter months.

Here’s why cold weather affects your joints:

1. Joint Fluid Thickens in Lower Temperatures

Cold weather slows circulation and thickens synovial fluid, the lubricant inside your joints.
Thicker fluid = stiffer, more painful movement.

2. Barometric Pressure Drops

Before snow or rain, atmospheric pressure falls, allowing joint tissues to expand.
That expansion increases pain for people with arthritis or inflammation.

3. Muscles Tighten in the Cold

Cold muscles lose flexibility and put more stress on your joints especially knees and hips.

4. Inflammation Becomes More Noticeable

Because circulation slows in the cold, your body is less effective at clearing inflammation.
This leads to:

• morning stiffness
• aching joints
• slower movement
• increased swelling

5. People Move Less in Winter

Shorter days and freezing temperatures lead to less activity, causing:

• weaker muscles
• stiffer joints
• increased pain

Motion truly is lotion for the joints.

Most Common Joints That Hurt in Cold Weather

• Knees
• Hips
• Shoulders
• Hands and fingers
• Lower back

These areas have high mobility and high stress, making them sensitive to pressure and temperature changes.

How Buffalo Arthritis & Joint Pain Center Helps Winter Joint Pain

Cold weather increases inflammation but you don’t have to live with constant stiffness and discomfort.
Our non-surgical treatments help:

• reduce swelling inside the joints
• improve circulation
• support cartilage health
• restore mobility
• decrease morning stiffness
• increase comfort during winter activity

Many patients report they move easier, sleep better, and feel more confident walking in winter conditions after beginning care.

Simple Ways to Reduce Joint Pain in Cold Weather

🧤 Dress warmly, especially knees and hips
🚶 Stay active with light walking
🧘 Stretch daily to maintain mobility
💧 Stay hydrated
🛁 Use warm showers to loosen stiff joints
🥗 Eat anti-inflammatory foods such as salmon, berries, olive oil

Small habits can dramatically reduce winter pain.

Don’t Let Winter Slow You Down

Cold weather doesn’t have to mean more pain.
With the right care, you can stay active and comfortable all winter long.

👉 Schedule your consultation today:
www.painreliefbajc.com

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