As winter sets in, many people—especially older adults and those with arthritis—start feeling that familiar stiffness and discomfort in their joints. The drop in temperature, reduced physical activity, and changes in air pressure can all worsen joint pain, making everyday movement difficult. According to Dr Karthik Gudaru, who is a leading Orthopaedic surgeon and one of the best knee joint replacement surgeons in Hyderabad, Telangana, explaining why joint pain increases in cold weather is the first step toward managing it effectively.

Why Do Knees Hurt More During Winters?

It’s common for people with arthritis or chronic joint issues to experience more pain during the winter months, especially in weight-bearing joints like the knees. Dr Karthik Gudaru, one of the most experienced orthopaedic knee surgeons in Hyderabad, explains that there are several reasons for this seasonal increase in pain:

  • Drop in Barometric Pressure: When the weather turns cold, barometric pressure (the air pressure around us) tends to drop. This causes tissues in the body to expand slightly, putting extra pressure on nerves in the joints—especially in areas already inflamed or damaged by arthritis. The result is stiffness, swelling, and pain.
  • Reduced Blood Circulation: Cold temperatures cause blood vessels to constrict, reducing blood flow to muscles and joints. Less oxygen and nutrients reach the affected areas, which can lead to stiffness and slower healing.
  • Inactivity and Sedentary Lifestyle: People tend to stay indoors during winter, avoiding exercise and outdoor movement. This inactivity weakens muscles that support the joints, particularly around the knees, making them more prone to pain and stiffness.
  • Dehydration and Vitamin D Deficiency: Many forget to hydrate properly during winter, and reduced sunlight exposure leads to lower Vitamin D levels—both of which can affect joint health. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in maintaining bone and cartilage strength.

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