Why Your Joints Feel Worse When the Weather Changes — and What to Do About It

Have you ever felt more achy or stiff when the weather shifts — especially when a cold front rolls in or the air feels damp? You’re not imagining it.

Many people in Toronto — particularly those with arthritis, joint injuries, or chronic pain — report increased discomfort during certain weather conditions. While the exact science is still being studied, there’s plenty we do know about how climate affects joint health, and what you can do to feel better year-round.

Why Do My Joints Hurt More When the Weather Changes?

The most common culprit? Changes in barometric pressure — the force of air pressing against your body. When the weather gets colder or stormier, the barometric pressure often drops, which may cause:

• Tissues around your joints to expand slightly
• Increased joint stiffness and sensitivity
• Nerve endings (especially in arthritic joints) to become more reactive

Humidity, wind chill, and sudden temperature swings — all common in Toronto’s unpredictable climate — can also affect how your joints feel.

Common Weather-Related Joint Issues in Toronto

• Osteoarthritis flare-ups in cold/damp conditions
• Stiffness or swelling in knees, hips, and hands during seasonal transitions
• Old injuries “acting up” when the temperature drops
• Increased fatigue and pain sensitivity in people with fibromyalgia or inflammatory conditions

Tips to Manage Joint Pain During Toronto Weather Swings

1. Stay Warm — Especially in the Mornings

Layer up before heading outside and consider using heating pads or warm baths to ease stiffness first thing in the day.

Try wearing thermal gloves or leggings indoors if your fingers or knees are sensitive to cold.

2. Keep Moving

While it’s tempting to curl up under a blanket, gentle daily movement actually reduces joint stiffness.

• Try a home stretching routine
• Walk indoors at a mall or community centre
• Join a low-impact class (like aquatic therapy or tai chi)

Your physiotherapist can tailor an exercise plan that works with the weather and your condition.

3. Use Moist Heat for Stiff Joints

Moist heat (like a warm towel or hot shower) is especially soothing for weather-related stiffness.

Avoid dry heat for extended periods unless recommended by your practitioner.

4. Track Your Symptoms with the Weather

Some people find it helpful to track pain levels alongside weather changes. This can help your physio fine-tune your treatment plan or prepare for flare-ups in certain seasons.

5. Consider Anti-Inflammatory Support

Ask your healthcare provider or physiotherapist about natural anti-inflammatory routines, such as:

• Omega-3s
• Gentle stretching
• Low-impact strength training
• Nutritional adjustments

These can help minimize flare-ups, especially during winter or rainy seasons.

How Physiotherapy Can Help

Physiotherapy is a powerful tool for managing seasonal joint pain, especially if you:

• Have arthritis or joint degeneration
• Are recovering from past injuries
• Experience joint pain that worsens with cold or damp weather
• Want to maintain mobility year-round

Your physiotherapist can develop a personalized plan that adapts to your symptoms — including home exercises, manual therapy, and lifestyle advice for managing Toronto’s changing conditions.

Final Thoughts

Toronto weather can be unpredictable — but your joint health doesn’t have to be.

With the right strategies and support, you can stay mobile and pain-free through every season. Whether it’s the damp chill of November or the deep freeze of February, your physiotherapy team is here to help you move with confidence and comfort.

Feeling the effects of the weather on your joints?
Book a consultation with our physiotherapists today. We’ll help you manage seasonal stiffness and stay active, no matter what the forecast says.