Winter Orthopaedic Issues: Common Challenges & Prevention Tips

Dr.Bharat Bahre, 2 mins read

Winter is the best time to grab your favourite hoodies and enjoy the snowfall in the serene mountains of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. The days become shorter and nights become freezing, especially in Northern India. We spend most of our time in cosy blankets and indoors, whether in the office or at home.

But that has another side as well. Winter reduces our outdoor activities and sunlight exposure. This can become a reason for orthopaedic problems, especially among older adults.

Common Orthopaedic Problems in Winter

Arthritis

Arthritis is inflammation or swelling of one or more joints. It causes severe pain in the affected joint and, in extreme cases, can interfere with daily activities. Winter can make arthritis more severe, exacerbating aches and pains. Low temperatures can narrow down blood vessels, reducing blood supply and causing muscle spasms and pain sensitivity.

Lower Back Pain

Back pain becomes more intense and painful during winter. This is due to less exercise and tighter muscles. The pain can sometimes become so debilitating that it makes bending and performing daily chores difficult.

Frozen Shoulder

Also known as adhesive capsulitis, it occurs when the connective tissue enclosing the shoulder joint tightens and thickens. The pain and tightness can limit one's ability to move the affected arm.

Slip and Fall Fractures

Winter is notorious for fractures due to increased slips and falls among older adults. Most of these fractures affect the wrist, elbow, ankle, hip, and shoulder. People with osteoarthritis are at higher risk.

Prevention Tips

Keep Your Weight in Check

Being overweight or underweight can put a strain on your knees or put you at risk of falling. So, keep an eye on your weight and take help from an expert.

Get Moving

Though we all become lazy in winter and we hardly get ourselves into physical activities, it’s important to keep yourself engaged in light exercises like brisk walking. Doing so can keep you physically active and healthy.

Supplement Yourself

Load your plate with nutritious and healthy meals. Get help from a dietitian to prepare a personalised diet chart plan. Also, get some sunlight in the early morning for vitamin D.

Personal Care

It’s good to wear shoes or slippers with a good grip. Remove slippery carpets and place comfortable and non-slippery rugs in the washroom. Walk cautiously in dim or no light.

Get regular checkups

Regular health checkups can help you diagnose any problem at any early stage. This will help you take appropriate actions and treatment early for better outcomes. Talk to our experts to book a consultation or regular health checkup at Aakash Healthcare.