How Cold Weather Can Affect Arthritis

Many people with arthritis notice that their joints feel stiffer and more painful when the weather turns cold. This is common for those living with arthritis in knee or other joints. Cold temperatures can make muscles and joints tighten, which can worsen arthritis symptoms and make daily activities harder. For people with psoriatic arthritis, the effects of cold weather can be more noticeable. Psoriasis arthritis often causes inflammation and pain in the joints, and the cold can increase discomfort. It’s important to stay active during colder months, even if it’s just gentle stretching or light exercises at home, to keep joints moving and reduce stiffness.

protect your joints in cold weather There are also simple ways to protect your joints in cold weather. Wearing warm clothing, using joint supports, and keeping your home comfortably heated can help reduce pain. Avoid staying in one position for too long, and try to keep moving gently throughout the day. If you have arthritis in knee or other joints, it’s a good idea to listen to your body. Pain or swelling may signal that you need to adjust your activities or take breaks. People with psoriatic arthritis should pay extra attention to joint health and consider talking to a physiotherapist for advice on managing symptoms in winter. Cold weather doesn’t have to stop you from staying active. With the right care and simple adjustments, you can manage arthritis symptoms and stay comfortable even in the chilly months. Learn more about how cold weather affects arthritis and what you can do to stay comfortable here: Read the full Arthiritis blog