A new year is the perfect time to start fresh â to move better, feel stronger and finally tackle those nagging aches that hold you back. Whether itâs stiff shoulders from long hours at your desk, tight hips after the holidays, or aching joints from the cold, January is when many people realise how much their body needs a reset.
At Indergaard Physiotherapy, we believe recovery starts with understanding what your body needs and creating a clear plan to help you move forward. Our goal is simple – to help you live pain-free, stay active and feel confident in your movement all year round.
Why Winter Makes Pain Feel Worse
Ever noticed that pain or stiffness feels worse in the cold? Youâre not imagining it. Lower temperatures can reduce blood flow, tighten muscles and make joints feel stiffer – especially first thing in the morning. Add in a drop in activity levels and more time sitting indoors and itâs easy to see why winter is a challenging season for your body.
Common issues we see in the clinic this time of year include:
- Neck and shoulder pain from working at home or poor posture
- Back stiffness after long periods of sitting
- Knee and hip pain made worse by cold, damp weather
- General muscle tightness from inactivity
The good news is that most of these aches can be eased and often prevented with the right approach.
Step 1: Assess and Understand Your Pain
Pain is your bodyâs way of telling you something needs attention. The first step is to understand whatâs causing it. At Indergaard Physiotherapy, every client receives a one-to-one assessment so we can identify the root of the problem – not just treat the symptoms.
This might include:
- A full movement assessment to pinpoint whatâs restricted
- Tests to identify weakness, tightness, or imbalance
- A tailored plan that fits your body, your lifestyle and your goals
Understanding the cause of your pain helps you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Step 2: Make a Plan and Start Moving
Once we know whatâs going on, weâll create a plan that focuses on getting you out of pain fast and helping you regain movement. This often includes:
- Manual therapy or targeted soft tissue work
- Individualised rehab exercises to restore strength and mobility
- Posture and movement guidance to prevent pain returning
You donât need to wait for the pain to be unbearable before you act. Small, consistent changes â like improving your posture or adding daily movement – can make a big difference.
Step 3: Build Strength for Long-Term Relief
Once the pain has eased, itâs time to rebuild. Strengthening your muscles, improving your mobility, and staying active are key to preventing future pain.
Our physiotherapists combine expert clinical knowledge with cutting-edge rehab methods to help you move better and feel stronger â whether youâre recovering from injury, getting back to sport or just want to feel more confident in your body.
Why Early Treatment Matters
Itâs easy to ignore pain or hope it will disappear on its own, but early treatment leads to faster recovery. Leaving pain untreated can cause muscles to weaken, posture to worsen and the problem to become more complex over time.
A physiotherapy assessment doesnât just treat what hurts now â it helps prevent future issues and keeps you doing what you love.
FAQs About Winter Pain
Why does joint pain feel worse in cold weather?
Cold temperatures can make muscles tighten and reduce circulation, leading to stiffness and discomfort in joints, especially in the morning or after rest.
How can I stop stiffness in winter?
Stay active, stretch daily, and avoid sitting still for too long. Gentle exercise like walking, Pilates, or mobility work keeps your joints warm and flexible.
Should I see a physiotherapist for everyday aches?
Yes. Even minor pain can be a sign of imbalance or strain. Early physiotherapy helps identify the cause and prevents long-term issues.
Can physiotherapy really help with posture-related pain?
Absolutely. A physiotherapist can assess how you sit, move, and stand, then create a plan to improve your posture and relieve pressure on your neck, back, and shoulders.
How long does it take to feel results?
Most clients notice improvement within a few sessions, especially when combining treatment with simple daily exercises and posture adjustments.
Start the Year Feeling Your Best
Pain shouldnât be part of your normal routine. Whether youâre dealing with a long-term issue or just need a physical reset after winter, weâre here to help you take that first step towards feeling bet-ter.
đ Leeds & Wakefield Clinics
đ Book online at www.indergaardphysio.com
đ Call us on 0113-286-0333