If you’ve had past injury or surgery near areas of stiffness you may find the nerves are hypersensitive, resulting in decreased mobility in lower temperatures. Another reason may be due to the thickening of joint fluid (synovial fluid), which is also common during this time of year, leading to feeling more jarred in movement. Here are a few tips which may alleviate some of the problematic symptoms:-
- Exercise: Keeping active during winter is a simple way to help prevent and manage symptoms. Swimming in a heated pool is a great all-rounder for fitness and soothing joints. If you’re not sure what movements you should be focusing on, our team can assess you and provide you with hand-picked exercises to support you through the season.
- Prepare: Many people suffer from swelling in the joints (such as swelling of the fingers) when going from hot to cold environments and vice versa. Pay attention to the swelling and make sure you wrap up warm, carrying essentials such as gloves and wear warm winter socks.
- Indulge: Having a warm bath can cause relief to painful joints. It is recommended that you normalise your body temperature before braving the cold after a warming soak. Massages may help also, as the masseuse can work on the joints and muscles surrounding them that might be causing discomfort.
