As temperatures drop and winter sets in, many people notice their joints feeling stiffer and achier than usual. Whether it’s your knees, hips, shoulders, or spine, cold weather can exacerbate discomfort, making everyday activities more challenging. Understanding why this happens—and what you can do about it—can help you stay active, mobile, and pain-free all season long.
At The OUCH Center, Dr. Maxim Moradian and our team specialize in orthopedic care, sports medicine, and regenerative treatments that keep joints and spine healthy, even in the winter months.
Why Cold Weather Affects Your Joints
1. Temperature and Joint Fluid
Cold weather can cause your synovial fluid, which lubricates your joints, to thicken slightly. This reduced fluidity may make movements feel stiffer and more uncomfortable.
2. Changes in Barometric Pressure
Lower barometric pressure can cause tissues around the joints to expand, putting pressure on nerves and increasing pain sensation—especially in those with arthritis or previous injuries.
3. Muscle Tightness
Muscles tend to contract and stiffen in colder temperatures, which can reduce support for your joints and increase the risk of strains or aches.
4. Reduced Activity
Winter often leads to less movement—shorter days, icy sidewalks, or just the temptation to stay indoors. Decreased activity can weaken muscles that stabilize joints and spine, worsening stiffness and discomfort.
Tips to Keep Joints and Spine Healthy This Winter
Stay Warm
Layering clothing, using heated pads, or taking warm baths can help loosen muscles and reduce joint stiffness.
Keep Moving
Gentle exercise, stretching, or indoor workouts keep joints lubricated, muscles strong, and circulation flowing. Consider low-impact activities like swimming, yoga, or stationary cycling.
Strengthen Supporting Muscles
Target your core, hips, and back muscles to protect your spine and joints from aches and strains. Strong muscles act as natural shock absorbers.
Mind Your Nutrition
Foods rich in omega-3s, antioxidants, and vitamin D can reduce inflammation and support bone and joint health during winter.
Seek Professional Care
Persistent pain or stiffness is a sign to get evaluated by an orthopedic specialist. The OUCH Center offers urgent orthopedic evaluations, regenerative therapies, and pain management options to help patients stay active and comfortable year-round.
How The OUCH Center Can Help
Whether you’re dealing with arthritis flare-ups, sports injuries, or chronic back and joint pain, The OUCH Center provides:
Targeted evaluations to identify the root cause of your pain
Regenerative and non-surgical treatments to reduce inflammation and restore mobility
Personalized care plans tailored to your lifestyle and goals
With convenient locations in Arcadia, Glendale, and Palmdale, plus telemedicine options, getting expert orthopedic care is easy—even in the winter months.
Stay Active, Pain-Free, and Warm This Winter
Don’t let cold weather slow you down. By staying active, protecting your joints, and seeking professional care when needed, you can enjoy winter without aches and pains.
📞 Call The OUCH Center: (818) 643-4346 | (626) 389-4346
📍 Locations: Arcadia | Glendale | Palmdale
🖥️ Telemedicine appointments available
Stay warm, move smart, and keep your joints and spine healthy this winter!