As temperatures drop across the UK, you might notice your knees feeling stiffer, your hands aching more or an old injury becoming uncomfortable again. But why does this happen, and what can you do about it?
As temperatures drop, you may notice stiffer joints or old injuries becoming more uncomfortable. Cold weather doesn’t necessarily damage joints, but lower temperatures, reduced movement and changes in weather may make symptoms more noticeable, particularly for people with arthritis or previous injuries. This doesn’t automatically mean an injury is getting worse.
5 Simple Ways to Make Cold Weather More Comfortable
1. Keep Moving, Even When You Don't Feel Like It
When your joints feel stiff, your first instinct might be to sit down and avoid moving. While resting when you need to is important, too much inactivity can make stiffness worse. Gentle activities, such as walking at a comfortable pace or doing simple movements recommended by a physiotherapist, may help maintain mobility.
The key is to find a level of activity that suits your abilities without pushing through significant pain.
2. Keep Yourself Warm
Layers can make a noticeable difference to your comfort during colder weather. Warm clothing, gloves and comfortable footwear can help you stay cosy when heading outside. If you experience stiff hands or knees, gentle warmth may provide temporary relief. Always follow safety guidance when using heat packs, particularly if you have reduced sensation or circulation problems.
3. Make Getting Around Less Demanding
Walking to the shops, standing in a queue or carrying shopping bags may require more effort than usual. This is where choosing the right mobility support can make a difference. Depending on your needs, a rollator can provide additional support while walking, while a mobility scooter may help you manage longer journeys without relying entirely on walking. A wheelchair can also be useful when walking is difficult or tiring, helping you conserve energy for the activities that matter to you. The right option depends on your individual mobility, balance, strength and environment. If you're unsure what would suit you, a healthcare professional or occupational therapist can help you assess your needs.
Explore the Ability Plus mobility scooter range or browse our rollators to discover the available options.
4. Don't Ignore the Importance of Comfort at Home
Cold weather can make you appreciate a comfortable place to sit and relax. If you experience discomfort when sitting down or getting back to your feet, a rise and recline chair may be worth considering. These chairs are designed to help users move between sitting and standing positions, with some models offering adjustable reclining positions for relaxation. For people who find standing up from a standard chair difficult, the lifting function may provide useful assistance. However, it's important to choose a chair that suits your height, weight, mobility and individual requirements.
Discover the Ability Plus rise and recline chair range.
When Should You Seek Medical Advice?
Cold weather can make stiffness and discomfort more noticeable, but persistent, worsening or activity-limiting joint pain should be checked by a healthcare professional. Seek urgent advice if a joint becomes suddenly very painful, hot or swollen, especially if you have a fever or feel unwell.
Cold weather can make everyday activities harder when you have joint pain, arthritis or an old injury. The right mobility aid from a rollator or scooter to a wheelchair or rise and recline chair can help you stay comfortable and independent.
Because staying comfortable isn't just about getting through the colder months. It's about continuing to enjoy life, whatever the weather.
