If you live with arthritis, past joint injuries, or general joint stiffness, you may notice that aches and discomfort feel more noticeable as the seasons shift.
This is especially common during autumn and winter, when colder weather and lifestyle changes can place extra strain on the body.
Seasonal joint pain can range from mild stiffness to persistent discomfort that affects daily movement.
While it can be frustrating, there are several reasons joints may feel more sensitive at certain times of year, and gentle ways you can support them.
What’s the Most Common Time of Year to Get Joint Pain?
Autumn and winter are when joint discomfort is most commonly reported.
Colder temperatures, increased dampness, reduced daylight, and changes in routine can all contribute to joints feeling stiffer or more uncomfortable than usual.
People often move less during these months, spend more time indoors, and experience changes in mood and energy, all of which can influence how joints feel day to day.
Why Do My Joints Hurt When the Seasons Change?
Many factors can influence joint pain, and understanding them can help you find ways to ease discomfort during the chilly months.
Cold temperatures
Cold weather can make muscles tighten and joints feel stiffer, particularly first thing in the morning or after long periods of rest.
For some people, this stiffness makes movement feel more uncomfortable until the body
Changes in Weather and Air Pressure
Some people notice joint discomfort during damp or rainy weather.
While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, changes in air pressure may affect how sensitive joints feel, especially in those with existing joint conditions.
Less Movement
Shorter days and colder weather often lead to reduced activity. When joints are not moved regularly, they can become stiff due to reduced circulation and lubrication within the joint.
Dietary Changes
Colder months often come with more processed foods, alcohol, and added sugars as we reach for comfort foods and seasonal treats.
While occasional indulgence is part of normal life, consistently high intakes of these foods may contribute to low-grade inflammation, which can affect joint comfort.
Low Mood and Seasonal Changes
Reduced daylight can affect mood and energy levels.
Low mood and stress are both linked with increased inflammation in the body, which may contribute to joint discomfort in some people.
Read our advice on supporting your mental health during winter.
Lower Vitamin D Levels
Vitamin D levels commonly drop during autumn and winter due to reduced sun exposure.
Vitamin D plays a role in bone health and muscle function, and low levels are associated with increased aches and discomfort for some people.
Hormonal Changes During Perimenopause and Menopause
During perimenopause and menopause, many women notice changes in joint comfort, including increased stiffness or aching.
This is linked to fluctuations and declines in oestrogen, a hormone that helps regulate inflammation and supports joint and connective tissue health.
Lower oestrogen levels can make joints feel stiffer or more sensitive, particularly after periods of rest. In winter, this can feel more noticeable.
Joint discomfort during menopause is a recognised symptom and can vary from mild stiffness to persistent aches. 
How to Reduce Seasonal Joint Pain
While joint discomfort is common during the colder months, there are ways to ease the pain.
Maintain Gentle, Regular Movement
Low-impact movement helps keep joints flexible and supported.
Walking, stretching, yoga, and mobility exercises can help maintain circulation and reduce stiffness without placing excess strain on the joints.
Focus on Supportive Nutrition
A balanced diet that includes protein, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables supports overall joint health.
Anti-inflammatory nutrients can help support the body’s natural repair processes during colder months.
Collagen and Other Supportive Nutrients
Joint comfort relies on a combination of structural support, lubrication, and healthy bone and muscle function.
Collagen plays a central role in the structure of tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and connective tissue, all of which can feel more strained during colder months or periods of hormonal change.
Arella’s liquid collagen is formulated to identically match Type I collagen, the primary form of collagen found in joints, bones, and connective tissue.
Our formula also includes vitamin C to support normal collagen formation, hyaluronic acid to support joint lubrication, and vitamin D to contribute to normal bone and muscle function.
This combination supports joint comfort during periods when stiffness is more common.
Further reading: Is liquid collagen better than powder?
Support Your Joints Through the Seasons with Arella
Seasonal changes can affect the body in different ways, and joint discomfort is a common part of that for many people.
At Arella, we focus on supporting body and mind as a whole in ways that feel gentle, steady, and easy to maintain, no matter the season.
View our full range, designed to support your wellbeing.
