Why Is My Arthritis Worse in the Cold? Understanding Joint Pain and Weather Changes
If you have arthritis, you may notice that your joint pain, stiffness, and discomfort seem to worsen when the weather turns cold. Many patients ask, “Why is my arthritis worse in the cold?” While colder temperatures don’t cause arthritis, they can significantly affect how your joints feel and move.
At Everybody’s Chiropractic Center in Upper Darby, PA, we help patients manage arthritis pain naturally through chiropractic care focused on joint mobility, spinal alignment, and overall wellness.
Our office is located at 115 E Township Line Road, Upper Darby, PA.
Call 610-789-1800 or visit
www.everybodyschiropractic.com
to schedule an appointment.
How Cold Weather Affects Arthritis
Cold weather can impact arthritis symptoms in several ways. While research is ongoing, many experts agree that environmental changes influence joint function and pain perception.
1. Changes in Barometric Pressure
As cold weather approaches, barometric pressure often drops. This change can cause tissues around the joints to expand slightly, increasing pressure inside already inflamed or sensitive joints.
2. Muscle Tightness and Reduced Flexibility
Cold temperatures cause muscles, tendons, and ligaments to tighten. When muscles surrounding arthritic joints become stiff, they can reduce mobility and increase pain.
3. Reduced Circulation
Cold weather can decrease blood flow to the extremities, especially the hands, knees, hips, and feet. Reduced circulation may increase joint stiffness and discomfort.
4. Less Physical Activity
During colder months, people tend to move less. Reduced activity can lead to joint stiffness, muscle weakness, and increased arthritis symptoms.
Types of Arthritis Commonly Affected by Cold Weather
Cold weather can worsen symptoms in several forms of arthritis, including:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Post-injury or degenerative joint conditions
Regardless of the type, joint stiffness and pain often increase when temperatures drop.
How Chiropractic Care Helps Arthritis Pain
Chiropractic care offers a natural, non-invasive approach to managing arthritis symptoms. While chiropractic care does not cure arthritis, it can help improve joint function and reduce discomfort.
At Everybody’s Chiropractic Center, arthritis-focused care may help by:
- Improving joint mobility
- Reducing stiffness and inflammation
- Relieving pressure on joints and nerves
- Supporting proper spinal alignment
- Enhancing overall movement and flexibility
Gentle chiropractic adjustments and supportive therapies can help joints move more freely—especially during colder months.
Simple Ways to Manage Arthritis During Cold Weather
In addition to chiropractic care, these strategies can help reduce cold-weather arthritis discomfort:
- Stay physically active with gentle movement
- Keep joints warm with layers or heating pads
- Stretch regularly to maintain flexibility
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint stress
- Stay hydrated and eat anti-inflammatory foods
Is Chiropractic Care Safe for Arthritis?
Yes. Chiropractic care is considered safe for many arthritis patients when provided by a licensed chiropractor. Treatment is always adapted to your condition, comfort level, and joint health.
Our approach emphasizes gentle techniques designed to support movement without placing excessive stress on sensitive joints.
Serving Upper Darby and Surrounding Communities
Everybody’s Chiropractic Center proudly helps patients with arthritis pain from throughout Delaware County, including:
- Upper Darby
- Drexel Hill
- Havertown
- Lansdowne
- Clifton Heights
- Springfield
- Yeadon
- Broomall
- Media
Find Arthritis Relief This Winter
If cold weather makes your arthritis symptoms worse, you don’t have to suffer through the season. Chiropractic care can help improve joint mobility, reduce stiffness, and support overall comfort.
Call 610-789-1800
Visit www.everybodyschiropractic.com
115 E Township Line Road, Upper Darby, PA
Schedule your appointment today and take a natural approach to managing arthritis pain—no matter the weather.