Does the weather cause joint pain? (or do we just like to moan about the weather!)

One thing I hear a lot when I see you for regular follow up treatments, is this: “How have you been?”  “Yes not too bad, but it’s been bad this week, but then the weather’s been bad” (or variations of this!).  Sometimes people ask if this is a real thing, and the short answer (if you’ve not got time for a coffee and a read!) is it might be…! But then that’s pretty standard for science - there are rarely 100% black and white answers!  For me, there’s enough evidence to suggest that yes, the weather may well affect joint pain.

So what are the theories about how and why the weather might affect our bodies and cause pain?

1. Air Pressure Changes

Atmospheric pressure (also called barometric pressure) drops just before rain or storms.  Some studies suggest that these pressure changes can affect the pressure inside our joints, and those already affected by arthritis or inflammation are particularly susceptible.  Hence these weather affected joints being more common in older people.

Think of it like a balloon: when the outside pressure drops, the balloon slightly expands. Joints may do something similar, irritating surrounding structures like joint capsules, ligaments and tendons.

Translation: yes, your knee might be a tiny weather forecaster.

2. Temperature Drops

Cold weather can make muscles feel tense and less flexible.  Tighter muscles can mean stiffer joints, restricted movement, and a higher perception of pain.  Are the muscles ACTUALLY tighter?  Jury is definitely out here - there is no conclusive objective evidence, but subjective perception suggests so.

My take?  When we’re chilly, we naturally hunch, brace, or move less — all of which can contribute to a feeling of stiffness and soreness.

3. Humidity

High humidity (that thick, “I'm already sweating and I haven’t moved” feeling) combined with lower pressure may worsen inflammation in some people. This is the one area which actually has some evidence behind it.  It's not fully proven yet, but enough people report it that researchers are paying attention and the studies so far suggest that humidity does measurably worsen inflammation in susceptible individuals.

4. The Brain Also Plays a Role

Pain is not just physical — it’s also processed in the brain.  Grey skies and cold days can affect mood, energy levels, motivation, and even how strongly we notice pain signals. So on gloomy days, discomfort might simply feel bigger and louder.

My take?  Our brains are HUGELY significant in our perception of pain.  I know I’ve said before that we’ll dive into this topic in a newsletter, but honestly it’s so big and complicated, I haven’t dared yet…!  But we know ABSOLUTELY that depression, anxiety and stress can create pain where none existed before.  So it stands to reason that if we feel glum during a prolonged spell of bad weather, this may well have a physiological effect on our body.

So… Is It Real?

In short: probably, yes.
Science hasn’t given us a simple, universal answer, but plenty of studies — along with millions of real-world experiences — suggest that weather can influence how we feel.

The good news?
It’s not in your head. I mean, except when it is… ooof there’s that complicated topic again!  I promise, I’ll get to it! Long story VERY short, it is in your head, but you’re not making it up!  It feels real, but your brain has got a bit confused!

What You Can Do to Stay Comfy (Whatever the Weather)

Whether it’s raining, freezing, or doing that sideways-wind thing, here are some tips to help your joints and muscles stay happy.

✔ Keep moving

Joints and muscles really will do better if they’re moving.  Gentle mobility, stretching, and regular activity keep blood flow high and stiffness low. Walking is a great start, aim for 20-30mins daily.

✔ Maintain strength

Strong muscles help support joints — especially important if you feel weather-sensitive.  We ALL need to be doing more strength training - ask me if you dont know where to start.

✔ Stay warm

Layers, heat packs, warm baths — your muscles love them all.  If you feel stiff, warm up slowly and then do some gentle movement

✔ Keep hydrated

People often drink less when it’s cold, but hydration really does support joint lubrication.

✔ Listen to your body

If you’re one of the people whose joints predict rain before the weather app does, take it as a friendly reminder to get warm, stretch, and do some gentle exercise to get things moving.