Why Arthritis Pain Gets Worse in Winter – Causes & Tips to Manage It: By Dr. Balaraju Naidu, Robotic Orthopedic Surgeon, ONUS Robotic Hospitals
Arthritis pain worsening during winter is a common complaint among patients with Osteoarthritis (OA), Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), gout, and other joint conditions. While the cold weather does not cause arthritis, it triggers existing joint inflammation, making symptoms more noticeable.
Here’s why arthritis pain increases during winter:
⭐ 1. Poor Blood Circulation
In cold temperatures, the body redirects blood toward vital organs to preserve heat. This reduces blood flow to joints, causing:
- Stiffness
- Limited joint movement
- Increased discomfort
⭐ 2. Thickening of Synovial Fluid
The synovial fluid inside joints works like a lubricant.
In winter, this fluid becomes thicker and sluggish, making movement painful.
This is one reason knees and finger joints feel “tight” in cold weather.
⭐ 3. Barometric Pressure Drops
Winter brings low barometric pressure.
Low pressure causes tissues around joints to expand, leading to:
- Swelling
- Pain sensitivity
- Increased stiffness
RA and OA patients feel this change more intensely.
⭐ 4. Muscles Tighten in Cold
Muscles naturally contract in cold weather.
Tight muscles increase pressure on inflamed joints—causing more pain, especially in mornings.
⭐ 5. Less Physical Activity
People tend to stay indoors and move less during cold months.
Less movement →
- More stiffness
- Reduced joint lubrication
- Weakening of supporting muscles
Inactive joints become painful joints.
⭐ 6. Low Vitamin D Levels
Winter sunlight is limited.
Vitamin D deficiency leads to:
- Weak bones
- Muscle pain
- Increased inflammation
All of which worsen arthritis.
⭐ Tips to Reduce Arthritis Pain in Winter
Here are simple steps to stay pain-free:
✔ Keep Yourself Warm
Use gloves, socks, warm clothing, knee sleeves.
✔ Stay Active
Walk indoors, do gentle stretches, try physiotherapy exercises.
✔ Use Hot Packs
Relieves stiffness and improves circulation.
✔ Maintain Hydration
Cold weather reduces thirst—dehydration worsens joint pain.
✔ Vitamin D & Calcium
Check your levels and supplement if needed (doctor-guided).
✔ Maintain Ideal Weight
Less load on joints = less pain.
✔ Seek Medical Guidance
If pain persists:
- Orthopaedic consultation
- Imaging if needed
- Medicines, injections, or advanced treatments for severe cases
Winter doesn’t cause arthritis—but it makes symptoms more noticeable. With simple lifestyle adjustments and medical care, you can manage winter joint pain effectively and stay active throughout the season.
📞 For Appointments:
ONUS Robotic Hospitals – Hyderabad
