5 Ways to Manage Arthritis Pain This Summer

With the arrival of summer comes the chance to enjoy sunshine, days at the beach, and outdoor activities of all kinds. But if you have arthritis, the heat, humidity, and shifts in routine that summer brings can worsen joint pain and inflammation.

Whether you're dealing with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or another type, it’s important to learn how warmer weather affects your condition and what you can do to manage your symptoms.

Our team at AssociatesMD offers comprehensive arthritis care in Plantation, Davie, Pembroke Pines, Weston, Margate, Dania Beach, and Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, and we’re here to help you enjoy better comfort and mobility all year round. 

Here are five smart ways to keep arthritis pain under control this summer.

1. Stay cool and hydrated

Heat and humidity can make your joints swell more than usual, leading to increased stiffness and discomfort. 

Staying hydrated helps your body regulate temperature and helps reduce inflammation. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water daily, and remember to drink more if you’re spending time in the sun or exercising.

Stay indoors during peak heat hours (typically 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), and use cooling aids like fans, air conditioning, or cooling towels. 

Wearing lightweight, breathable clothing can also keep you more comfortable and help prevent heat-related flare-ups.

2. Keep moving with low-impact exercise

Regular movement is important for managing arthritis symptoms, even when it’s hot out. Low-impact activities like swimming, walking, or gentle yoga help strengthen the muscles around your joints, improve flexibility, and reduce stiffness.

Swimming can be particularly enjoyable during the summer. It’s a full-body workout that doesn’t put stress on your joints, and the cool water helps soothe inflammation. Early morning or evening walks can also be a great way to stay active while avoiding the hottest part of the day.

3. Don’t overdo it

Whether you’re gardening, hiking, or doing household chores, warmer weather often means more physical activity. Unfortunately, more movement can put extra strain on your joints if you’re not careful.

Make sure to use proper posture whenever you’re active to reduce stress on your joints. Wear supportive footwear and consider braces or compression sleeves if your knees, wrists, or ankles tend to swell or ache. When you’re taking on bigger tasks, break them into smaller steps and take frequent breaks to rest and hydrate.

4. Eat anti-inflammatory foods

A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can help reduce joint pain no matter the weather. 

Try to incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fatty fish (like salmon and tuna), nuts, and seeds. These foods provide important nutrients and antioxidants that can lower inflammation and support joint health.

Limit processed foods, added sugars, and excessive salt. These can contribute to inflammation and water retention, both of which can make arthritis symptoms worse in the heat.

5. Don’t forget your arthritis treatment plan 

Summer can throw off your routines, especially if you’re traveling or caring for kids on break — but sticking to your arthritis treatment plan is essential to managing your symptoms. 

Continue taking prescribed medications as directed, and stay on top of physical therapy, exercise, and follow-up appointments.

If you notice your symptoms worsening or new pain developing, don’t wait to reach out. We offer personalized arthritis management to get to the root cause of your discomfort and help you feel your best year-round. 

Schedule an appointment at AssociatesMD online or call us at 954-434-1705 to start building a treatment plan that works for you.