How to Get Rid of Stiff Joints in the Winter

Do you experience worsening joint and muscle stiffness during the winter? Colder temperatures and rainy weather often make joint stiffness worse. Thankfully, there are several ways to alleviate these symptoms.

  1. Keep Moving: As tempting as it is to stay indoors and rest during the darkest months of the year, one of the best ways to improve joint stiffness is to keep moving. Exercise increases blood flow to muscles and joints; even a brisk walk can improve the range of motion in stiffened joints. An indoor gym or mall is ideal for this activity during the colder months. Other great options include riding a seated exercise bike or swimming in a heated pool.
  2. Try a Low-Impact Exercise Routine: If you’re inflexible all year, winter could be a great time to pick up a low-impact exercise routine! YogaTai Chi and Pilates are all great low-impact exercise routines that are proven to increase flexibility, core strength, and overall fitness. There are several free apps and YouTube videos you can follow within the comfort of your own home. Joining a group class adds the benefit of camaraderie and guided practice which can be ideal for beginners.
  3. Apply Heat: Moist heat and heating pads can be very effective for relieving stiff and achy joints, however, they should be used with caution. It’s recommended to apply heat for no more than 20-minute increments and to check the skin every five minutes for adverse skin reactions. As tempting as it is to fall asleep with a heating pad, this can be dangerous and lead to burns!

Ultimately, the best advice is to dress warmly and keep moving as the winter months pass. If you need help managing stiff joints, request an appointment online or call us today at (804) 764-1000 to set up a consultation with one of our arthritis specialists.

You may also enjoy: How Much Exercise is Enough When You Have Arthritis?

Share This Post:

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
RehaBlog

More Posts

Sleep Well, Live Well!

It is no secret that a full night of quality sleep is important for the day ahead. However, did you know that sleep represents a critical period of recovery and can have an effect on your perception of pain, cardiovascular health, and ability to heal? If you are recovering from an injury or dealing with a chronic condition, this is important stuff! Yet, approximately one third of people in the U.S. suffer from sleep disturbances, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention considers inadequate sleep to be a public health concern.

Staying Busy When You’re Bored: Getting Out Into the Community

As we age, staying engaged and finding new hobbies can be challenging, but this doesn’t have to be the case. Boredom, loneliness, and stress often stem from a lack of connection, and getting involved in the community can be a powerful remedy. Whether you want to give back, explore new interests, meet people, or learn something new, there are plenty of fun and meaningful ways to stay active and connected.

Pelvic Floor Exercises You Can Do At Home

If you have suffered from a pelvic floor dysfunction, then a pelvic floor exercise routine, commonly referred to as Kegel exercises, might be what you need to help strengthen these muscles.

Weight-Bearing Interventions In Stroke Recovery

Experiencing a stroke can lead to motor impairments, including hemiparesis, which is a weakness or paralysis on one side of the body. These impairments can often impact an individual’s ability to perform daily activities such as dressing, bathing, driving, walking, and using the restroom. Traditionally, physical and occupational therapy focus on helping people adapt to these changes; however, research is now recommending methods that help recover function. Weight-bearing, or putting weight on an individual’s affected arm or leg, supports stroke recovery by helping the brain and body work better together to improve balance, coordination, and strength.

Making Your Bathroom Safer

The bathroom may be one of the smallest rooms in the house, but it’s often the most hazardous—especially for those with mobility challenges, balance issues, or those recovering from injury or surgery. With a few thoughtful adjustments, you can significantly improve the safety of your bathroom and make your daily routines more comfortable and confident. Here are some practical tips to help you create a safer, smarter space.

Start your Journey

Learn more about Sheltering Arms Institute

Contact a specialist at Sheltering Arms Institute to learn more about how you can gain more freedom in your everyday life.