As winter settles in the Durham Region, many individuals with knee bursitis may notice increased discomfort. The cold weather can exacerbate symptoms, making it essential to adopt strategies that keep your knees healthy and pain-free. At Durham Orthopedic & Sports Injury Clinic, we specialize in helping patients manage knee bursitis effectively, no matter the season.
What Is Knee Bursitis?
Knee bursitis occurs when the small fluid-filled sacs (bursae) near your knee joint become inflamed. This condition can cause pain, swelling, and restricted movement. While knee bursitis can affect anyone, it’s particularly common among athletes, older adults, and individuals whose daily activities involve repetitive kneeling.
Why Does Winter Make Knee Bursitis Worse?
Cold weather often leads to:
- Tighter Muscles and Stiff Joints.Reduced circulation in cold temperatures can make muscles and joints less flexible, increasing the risk of flare-ups.
- Decreased Physical Activity.Many people are less active in winter, which can weaken the muscles supporting the knee.
- Slips and Falls.Snow and ice can cause accidents that stress the knee, aggravating bursitis symptoms.
Winter Tips to Manage Knee Bursitis
- Stay Warm
Keep your knees warm by wearing insulated clothing or using heat packs before physical activity. Warmth improves circulation and reduces stiffness. - Low-Impact Exercises
Activities like swimming, yoga, and indoor cycling strengthen knee-supporting muscles without putting extra stress on the joint. - Stretch Regularly
Gentle stretching increases flexibility and helps prevent stiffness. Focus on stretches for the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. - Use Supportive Gear
Consider wearing knee braces or pads to protect the joint from excessive pressure, especially during activities like shoveling snow or kneeling. - Apply Heat and Ice
Use heat to relax the joint before activity and ice to reduce swelling after exertion. Alternating heat and ice can also provide relief. - Maintain a Healthy Weight
Extra weight puts pressure on the knees, exacerbating bursitis symptoms. A balanced diet and regular exercise can help manage weight effectively. - Seek Professional Care
If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a physiotherapist or orthopedic specialist. Tailored treatment plans, including manual therapy and strengthening exercises, can make a significant difference.
How Durham Orthopedic & Sports Injury Clinic Can Help
At Durham Orthopedic & Sports Injury Clinic, we offer a range of treatments to help manage knee bursitis, including:
- Physiotherapy: Personalized exercises to strengthen and stabilize your knee.
- Ultrasound Therapy: To reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Injury Prevention Strategies: Advice tailored to your lifestyle to prevent future flare-ups.
Don’t Let Winter Slow You Down
Knee bursitis doesn’t have to hold you back this winter. With proper care and expert guidance, you can enjoy a pain-free season. Contact Durham Orthopedic & Sports Injury Clinic and start your road to recovery today.
