Winter can be a time of great joy, with the excitement of welcoming a new year and enjoying quality time with loved ones. However, it can also bring discomfort, especially for those who suffer from hip problems. The cold weather and slippery conditions can aggravate existing hip issues or cause new ones to arise.
So why does winter seem to be particularly troublesome for our hips? Our bodies naturally tighten up in colder temperatures, which can lead to stiffness and decreased flexibility. Additionally, the icy sidewalks and roads can increase the risk of slips and falls, which can be especially dangerous for those with hip problems.
Luckily, there are some simple remedies that may help alleviate winter hip discomfort and keep you moving comfortably throughout the season.
Dress for Warmth
The first step in combating winter hip discomfort is to simply dress appropriately for the weather. Layering up with warm, loose-fitting clothing can help keep your muscles and joints from becoming too stiff in the cold. Investing in a good pair of winter boots with proper traction is also important to prevent slips and falls.
Stay Active
Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining healthy hips, especially during the winter months. Low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, and yoga can help keep your joints mobile and reduce stiffness. If you’re unable to go outside due to poor weather conditions, there are plenty of indoor exercises that can be done in the comfort of your own home.
Heat Therapy
Applying heat to your hips can help relax muscles and increase blood flow, which may help provide relief from discomfort. You can use a heating pad, hot water bottle, or take a warm bath to ease stiffness and pain. Just remember not to apply heat directly to your skin and limit heat therapy sessions to 20 minutes at a time.
Stretching
Stretching is a simple but effective way to alleviate hip discomfort. Gentle stretches can help loosen up tight muscles and improve flexibility, reducing the risk of injury. Incorporating stretches into your daily routine, especially before and after physical activity, can make a big difference in managing winter hip discomfort.
Regenerative Therapies
Thanks to new advances in medical technology, patients experiencing chronic discomfort from old or recent injuries can now experience healing and relief. At Syracuse Area Health – Strasburger Orthopaedics, we offer platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, which use your body’s own healing properties to promote tissue repair. This non-surgical treatment may help reduce inflammation and improve joint function, providing long-term relief for winter hip discomfort.
We also offer iovera°, a minimally invasive procedure that uses cold therapy to temporarily block nerve signals to the brain. This quick and effective treatment can provide immediate relief for up to three months. To learn more about either of these procedures, contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Don’t let winter hip discomfort keep you from enjoying the season. By following these simple remedies and seeking regenerative therapies when needed, you can stay active and free of discomfort through the rest of the winter months.
