Winter Brings a Rise in Bone-Related Issues: Experts Highlight Seasonal Orthopedic Concerns

Delhi NCR, 22nd January 2025 – As winter sets in, colder temperatures bring unique challenges for bone and joint health. Many individuals experience increased joint stiffness, worsening arthritis pain, and flare-ups of chronic conditions like osteoarthritis and lower back pain. Experts are urging people to take proactive measures to protect their bones and maintain mobility during the chilly months.

Winter can be tough on bone health due to both the cold weather and the body’s natural response. The cold causes the blood vessels to tighten, reducing blood flow to the joints, which often leads to stiffness, especially for people with arthritis. On top of that, we tend to move less in the winter, which can make stiffness and mobility issues worse. With less sunlight, our bodies also produce less vitamin D, which is essential for calcium absorption and strong bones. This can weaken bones over time, particularly for older adults or those dealing with osteoporosis.

Dr. Arvind Mehra, Senior Director, Orthopaedic, Paras Health highlights the importance of prioritizing bone health during winter, particularly for seniors, “Winter can be particularly challenging for seniors and individuals suffering from conditions like osteoarthritis or lower back pain. We have witnessed a 30% surge in cases related to bone and joint issues this January compared to previous months. A majority of the patients are in the age group 45yrs & up, highlighting the need for focused care during this time. Simple measures such as staying warm, maintaining an active lifestyle, and consuming a balanced diet rich in vitamin D and calcium can go a long way in keeping bones healthy. In fact, 65% of patients we see are deficient in vitamin D during the colder months, which can significantly affect their bone and joint health. Proactive care, such as vitamin D supplementation and regular exercise, has shown to reduce pain and improve mobility in patients, allowing them to enjoy a better quality of life throughout the winter season.”

To tackle winter challenges, experts recommend low-impact exercises like walking, yoga, or gentle stretching to improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and ease pain. Nutrition also plays a key role—calcium-rich foods like dairy, leafy greens, and almonds, along with vitamin D from eggs and fatty fish, help strengthen bones and joints. If diet alone isn’t enough, consulting a doctor about supplements is a good idea.

Keeping joints warm helps prevent stiffness and discomfort during winter. Dressing in layers, using heating pads, and taking warm baths can ease pain and improve flexibility, especially for those with osteoarthritis or other chronic conditions. Winter can also worsen issues like frozen shoulder or back pain, so regular orthopedic check-ups are important. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference in comfort and mobility. With the right precautions and adjustments, winter doesn’t have to mean increased pain or limited movement.