Think arthritis only flares in the cold? Think again—heat and humidity can be just as tough on your joints.
When people think of arthritis pain, they usually picture winter—cold, damp weather and stiff, aching joints. But many arthritis sufferers feel just as uncomfortable during the summer months, especially when the weather is hot, humid, or stormy.
At Family Medicine Center, we understand that arthritis is a year-round condition—and that the summer heat brings its own challenges. If you’ve noticed more swelling, stiffness, or fatigue lately, the weather might be playing a bigger role than you think.
Here’s how summer affects your joints—and what you can do to stay mobile, active, and pain-free.
🌡️ Humidity and Heat Can Increase Inflammation
High humidity can cause the body to retain fluid, leading to swollen joints and increased stiffness—especially in people with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Heat can also intensify the body’s inflammatory response, triggering discomfort.
👀 What to watch for: Joints that feel more swollen, tender, or stiff than usual after spending time outside.
💡 Pro tip: Stay in air-conditioned environments during peak heat, and elevate swollen limbs when resting. Compression sleeves can also reduce inflammation.
💧 Dehydration Can Worsen Joint Stiffness
Your joints rely on proper hydration to stay lubricated. When you’re dehydrated, synovial fluid (which cushions your joints) becomes less effective—leading to more friction and pain.
💬 Sound familiar? You’re sweating more, drinking less, and feeling achier at the end of the day.
💡 Pro tip: Drink plenty of water throughout the day—even if you’re not thirsty. Add hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumbers, or coconut water for a refreshing boost.
🛏️ Poor Sleep and Fatigue Make Pain Feel Worse
Hot nights and disrupted sleep can heighten pain sensitivity. If your arthritis feels more intense after a bad night’s rest, it’s not in your head—your body needs downtime to regulate inflammation.
👀 What to watch for: Difficulty sleeping due to heat, tossing and turning, or waking up more sore than usual.
💡 Pro tip: Use fans or cooling bedding to lower nighttime temperatures, and aim for a consistent sleep schedule to support healing.
🚶 Overexertion Can Lead to Joint Flare-Ups
More sunshine often means more walking, swimming, and summer chores. While movement is great for arthritis, overdoing it—especially in the heat—can lead to flare-ups.
💡 Pro tip: Pace yourself. Break activity into short sessions with breaks in cool environments. Use supportive footwear and avoid high-impact surfaces when possible.
Stay Active—Without the Ache
Summer shouldn’t stop you from enjoying movement and making memories. With a few smart habits, you can keep arthritis pain under control and stay comfortable, mobile, and strong all season long.
At Family Medicine Center, we offer arthritis management, joint health checkups, and personalized treatment plans to help you move with less pain—no matter the weather.
📞 Call (242) 702-9310 to schedule your arthritis or joint health consultation
📅 Book your visit today and enjoy a stronger, more comfortable summer.