Month: January 2026

Reviewed by Dr. Dustin B. Rinehart

TLDR: Cold weather often brings increased joint pain due to changes in temperature and pressure. When temperatures drop, arthritic joints may become stiff, swollen, and irritated. Cooler air, lower barometric pressure, and reduced physical activity can trigger discomfort. Early supportive care with dedicated exercises, over the counter medication, and support from an orthopedic specialist can ensure colder months remain tolerable. If you want help easing seasonal joint pain, TSAOG offers both physical therapy for arthritis and advanced joint preservation options that keep people moving comfortably year-round.

Why Cold Weather Can Make Joint Pain Worse

Many people notice their joint pain increases when a cold front rolls in. While the experience varies from person to person, weather changes may affect the tissues around your joints. Colder temperatures can make muscles and connective tissues tighten, which reduces flexibility and increases the feeling of stiffness. That small change can lead to increase pain in already sensitive joints.

Barometric pressure also plays a role, similar to temperature, in that it may impact tissues around your joints. This small shift often increases soreness, especially for those with inflammation-based conditions like arthritis. You may feel the effects most in weight-bearing joints such as knees, hips, and ankles, but hands and fingers can react strongly as well.

Reduced movement during winter adds another layer. People naturally move less when it’s cold, which means joints don’t get the usual workout they need to remain limber. Without regular movement, stiffness becomes more noticeable, and pain builds quickly.

How Arthritis Reacts to Seasonal Changes

Arthritis already involves inflammation, so the different weather can intensify symptoms. If your arthritis symptoms normally fluctuate, seasonal shifts may make those changes more pronounced.

Osteoarthritis often feels worse in winter because the joint is no longer warm and flexible. Meanwhile, inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis may flare when weather changes.

It’s also worth remembering that colder weather often changes daily routines. People may skip outdoor walks or stay indoors longer. Without steady movement, joints become less resilient. Even a few days of inactivity can create a noticeable increase in symptoms for those living with arthritis.

The good news is that managing these changes is possible with a combination of self-care, consistent activity, and support from a specialist when you need it.

Tips to Manage Joint Pain in Cold Weather

Stay Warm and Layered

Keeping your joints warm helps them stay flexible and less reactive to temperature swings. Light layers, gloves, warm socks, and heated blankets can make day-to-day movement feel easier.

Keep Moving, Even in Small Ways

Gentle, regular activity keeps circulation steady and reduces the feeling of stiffness in cold weather. Indoor stretching routines, low-impact cardio, or short strength sessions can all keep joints more comfortable. Even a few minutes of walking around the house or doing mobility exercises during breaks can make a difference when it’s too chilly to be outside for long.

Try Warm Showers or Heat Packs

Heat encourages tight tissues to relax and move more easily. A warm shower in the morning can loosen up stiff joints, while a heating pad in the evening helps calm lingering soreness.

Support Joints During Activity

Braces, supportive footwear, and cushioned insoles can reduce stress on sensitive joints and make daily activities more manageable. These small adjustments help you stay active without adding unnecessary strain, especially when sidewalks are uneven, slippery, or cold enough to make muscles tense.

Stay Hydrated and Eat Warm Meals

Hydration keeps joint tissues healthier and more resilient. Warm foods like soups, stews, and herbal teas offer comfort while also helping you meet your fluid needs during a season when people tend to drink less water.

Maintain a Consistent Routine

Joints often tolerate weather changes better when you maintain steady habits. Regular movement, predictable sleep patterns, and consistent activity levels help regulate inflammation and prevent big swings in stiffness or pain.

When to See an Orthopedic Specialist

If your joint pain becomes hard to manage, limits daily activities, or flares up every winter without much relief, a specialist can help you create a plan that aligns with your health, age, and activity level.

TSAOG helps patients manage arthritis pain year-round by focusing on your individual symptoms, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Their team supports patients through every stage of arthritis care, offering detailed evaluations, personalized treatment plans, and long-term guidance that adapts as your needs change. With a full range of specialists, diagnostic tools, and both conservative and advanced treatment options, TSAOG provides the clarity and support you need to stay active in any season.

If colder weather is making your joints ache more than usual, you don’t have to suffer. Talking with a TSAOG provider can help you figure out what’s driving your symptoms and discuss options for improvement.

Resource:

https://www.uhhospitals.org/blog/articles/2024/01/is-joint-pain-worse-in-cold-weather

In short: A SLAP tear is an injury to the ring of cartilage (the labrum) that surrounds the shoulder socket, and it often causes pain, clicking, and reduced strength, especially with overhead movement. A SLAP tear affects the upper portion of the labrum where the biceps tendon attaches. This area helps keep the shoulder stable during lifting, reaching, and rotation, so even a small injury can interrupt day-to-day activities. Many people notice pain when reaching overhead, rotating the arm, or performing sports that rely on quick, repeated shoulder motion. Early evaluation helps determine whether the tear can improve with rest and therapy or if more targeted treatment is needed. TSAOG’s shoulder and elbow specialists treat all types of labral injuries and offer a wide range of care options, including procedures performed at TSAOG’s accredited surgery centers.

Understanding SLAP Tears

“SLAP” stands for Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior, which describes the location and direction of the tear. This part of the labrum anchors the biceps tendon and supports the ball-and-socket structure of the shoulder. When it’s damaged, the joint loses some of its stability and smoothness. That’s why many people report catching, popping, or “loose” sensations.

SLAP tears are often categorized into several types, ranging from minor fraying of the labrum to complete detachment of the biceps tendon anchor. Each type affects shoulder stability differently, which can influence the severity of symptoms and the best approach to treatment. Some tears remain relatively stable and cause mild discomfort, while others can progress over time, increasing pain and limiting overhead or rotational movements. Understanding the specific type of tear can help guide treatment decisions and improve outcomes, particularly for athletes or individuals whose work relies heavily on shoulder function.

Common Causes of SLAP Tears

SLAP tears can occur from a single traumatic event or gradually from repetitive movement over time. One frequent cause is repetitive overhead motion. Athletes who play baseball, tennis, volleyball, or swimmers and weightlifters often place ongoing stress on the top of the labrum. Over months or years, this repeated strain can weaken the tissue and eventually lead to a tear.

Falls and impact injuries are another common source. Landing on an outstretched hand, taking a hard hit, or experiencing a sudden pull on the arm can generate enough force to detach the labrum from the shoulder socket. Similarly, sudden lifting or jerking motions, such as trying to hoist a heavy object quickly or catching something unexpectedly, can place intense stress on the biceps anchor and surrounding labrum.

Age-related changes also play a role. As people get older, the labrum naturally becomes thinner and more fragile, which can make even ordinary activities enough to create small tears that gradually worsen. Work-related strain can contribute as well. Jobs that involve frequent overhead activity or heavy lifting increase the risk of labral injury over time.

Regardless of the cause, the outcome is often the same: pain, instability, and difficulty using the shoulder at full strength, which can impact both daily activities and athletic performance.

Signs and Symptoms of a SLAP Tear

SLAP tear symptoms can vary, but certain patterns appear frequently. Many people describe a deep, hard-to-pinpoint ache at the top or front of the shoulder that becomes more noticeable with overhead movement. Some experience clicking or popping during daily tasks, especially when raising the arm, reaching behind the body, or rotating the shoulder. Others notice weakness, a sense that the joint might “give out,” or a gradual decline in strength and endurance during sports or exercise.

These changes often stand out most during activities that rely on forceful or repeated shoulder motion. Athletes, in particular, may notice a drop in power or precision when throwing, swimming, or swinging.

Because these symptoms are similar to those seen in rotator cuff or biceps tendon injuries, a medical evaluation is the most reliable way to determine whether the underlying issue is a SLAP tear or another type of shoulder problem.

Diagnosis and Evaluation

Accurate diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history and physical exam. During the exam, a specialist checks shoulder strength, range of motion, and joint stability. Certain movement tests help determine whether the pain stems from the labrum, the biceps tendon, the rotator cuff, or a combination.

Imaging studies can provide further clarity. X-rays rule out bone problems, while MRI or MRI arthrograms offer a clearer view of the labrum itself. In some cases, the full extent of the tear becomes most apparent during arthroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure where a camera is inserted into the joint. Early diagnosis allows you to start treatment sooner, which often leads to a smoother and quicker recovery.

Some SLAP tears can improve without surgery, particularly mild fraying or small, stable tears. Rest, activity modification, and structured physical therapy help strengthen the muscles surrounding the shoulder, which improves stability and reduces pain. However, deeper or unstable tears often do not heal completely on their own because the top of the labrum has limited blood supply. If your symptoms interfere with daily activities, continue for several months despite conservative care, or prevent you from performing your sport or job safely, more specialized treatment may be recommended. Once a SLAP tear has been diagnosed and conservative measures alone aren’t enough, several treatment approaches can help relieve pain, restore function, and support recovery.

Physical Therapy

Therapy focuses on strengthening the rotator cuff and stabilizing muscles, improving shoulder mechanics, and reducing strain on the labrum. Many people see significant improvement with consistent therapy.

Activity Modification and Rest

Avoiding painful overhead activities or high-force movements gives the shoulder time to recover. Adjusting athletic training or work routines may help reduce irritation.

Anti-Inflammatory Medication

Short-term use of anti-inflammatory medication can reduce pain and swelling during the early phase of recovery.

Injections

In some cases, injections may help calm irritation in the joint and provide relief that allows you to progress with physical therapy.

Arthroscopic Surgery

For persistent symptoms or more advanced tears, minimally invasive surgery may be recommended. Options include repairing the torn labrum with sutures or performing a biceps tenodesis, which repositions the biceps tendon to relieve tension at the labrum. These procedures are typically performed in outpatient settings like TSAOG’s surgery centers, where patients receive efficient, specialized care.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery and rehabilitation is not just about returning to activity but also maintaining long-term shoulder health. Continuing exercises and good movement habits after rehab can help prevent reinjury and support lasting mobility. Following the rehabilitation plan carefully, listening to your body, and gradually increasing activity intensity are all key components of successful recovery. Many patients find that a consistent routine of strength, flexibility, and stability work helps maintain optimal shoulder function and reduces the likelihood of future labral or tendon injuries.

Surgical recovery takes longer but is highly structured. Early stages focus on protecting the repair, followed by gradual strengthening and range-of-motion work. Full return to overhead sports or demanding activities may take several months, but most patients regain strong, reliable shoulder function with proper rehabilitation. Regular communication with your physical therapist and orthopedic specialist ensures each phase of recovery progresses safely.

You should consider seeing an orthopedic specialist if shoulder pain lasts more than a few weeks or if you notice clicking, catching, or a sense of instability in the joint. Difficulty performing overhead movements, weakness that limits daily activities, or a decline in athletic performance are also signs that professional evaluation may be needed. Additionally, any sudden shoulder injury that causes pain or discomfort warrants a specialist’s assessment. An orthopedic expert can determine whether your symptoms indicate a SLAP tear or another shoulder condition and guide you toward the treatment plan most likely to restore strength, stability, and comfort.

SLAP Tear FAQs

Is a SLAP tear worse than a rotator cuff tear? – They are different injuries, and one is not automatically worse than the other. A SLAP tear affects the labrum, while a rotator cuff tear involves the shoulder’s muscles and tendons. Severity depends on the specific injury and how much it limits movement and function.

What does a SLAP tear feel like? – Many people report deep pain, clicking, or catching in the shoulder, especially with rotation or overhead activity.

What happens if you leave a SLAP tear untreated? – Some mild tears improve with rest and therapy, but others can lead to ongoing pain, instability, or decreased strength if not addressed.

Is SLAP tear surgery worth it? – Surgery can be very effective for people whose symptoms persist despite conservative care, especially athletes or individuals who rely heavily on overhead motion.

Can you worsen a SLAP tear? – Yes. Repetitive overhead activity, heavy lifting, or sudden forceful movement can increase the severity of the tear.

If shoulder pain is limiting your daily routine or making overhead movement difficult, help is close by. TSAOG’s specialists offer thorough evaluations, clear guidance, and personalized care plans designed to support long-term shoulder health. Whether you need focused therapy, advanced imaging, or surgical expertise, a visit with a TSAOG provider can help you understand your options and move toward comfortable, confident shoulder function again.

Resource:

• https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/slap-tears

If you’re experiencing sudden pain, weakness, or a visible bulge in your bicep, you may have suffered a bicep tear. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this common injury, including symptoms, types of tears, treatment options, prevention tips, what to expect during recovery, and how to find a specialist.

Watch now: Once You POP, You Need to Stop – Recognizing Biceps Tendon Tears

What Is a Bicep Tear?

A bicep tear, also known as a biceps tendon rupture, can be a partial or complete tear of the biceps tendon that connects the biceps muscle to the bone. Tears can occur at either the shoulder or elbow.

What Does a Bicep Tear Feel Like?

A bicep tear can cause a range of sensations and symptoms, which may vary depending on the severity and location of the tear. Here’s what a bicep tear might feel like:

• Sudden, sharp pain: At the moment of injury, you may feel a sudden, intense pain in the front of your upper arm or at the elbow. This pain is often described as a “pop” or “snap.”
• Cramping or aching: Following the initial sharp pain, you may experience a deep ache or cramping sensation in the biceps muscle.
• Weakness: You may notice immediate weakness in your arm, particularly when bending your elbow or rotating your forearm. Weakness is typically more pronounced with a complete tear.
• Bruising and swelling: Within a few hours to a day after the injury, you may notice bruising and swelling in the affected area. Bruising can extend from the upper arm down to the elbow and even into the forearm.
• Deformity or “Popeye” sign: In some cases, especially with a complete distal biceps tendon tear, you may notice a visible deformity in the biceps muscle. The muscle may appear to have “balled up” in the upper arm, creating a bulge resembling the cartoon character Popeye’s exaggerated biceps.
• Limited range of motion: You may find it difficult or painful to fully straighten or bend your elbow, and your overall arm mobility may be reduced.

It’s important to note that the severity of symptoms can vary, and some people may experience more pain and weakness than others.

Types of Bicep Tears

There are two main types of bicep tears:

1. A proximal biceps tendon tear occurs at the shoulder joint, where the long head of the bicep tendon attaches to the glenoid labrum within the shoulder joint. It is more common than distal tears.
2. A distal biceps tendon tear occurs at the elbow joint, where the tendon attaches to the radial tuberosity of the radius bone in the forearm. It is less common but often more severe than proximal tears.

Bicep Tear Treatment Options

Treatment options for bicep tendon tears depend on a variety of factors including the extent of the tear (complete or partial), amount of retraction, its location (proximal or distal), the patient’s age, activity level, symptoms, and overall health. Here are the main treatment approaches:

Non-Surgical Treatment:

• Rest and ice: Initial treatment often involves resting the affected arm and applying ice to reduce pain and swelling.
• Pain medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation.
• Physical therapy: After the initial healing phase, physical therapy can help restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the affected arm.
• Activity modification: Avoiding activities that strain the biceps muscle can facilitate healing.

Surgical Treatment:

• Proximal biceps tendon tears: Are often treated conservatively without surgery. If surgery is indicated it involves reattaching the ruptured tendon to the bone using anchors or sutures. This is called a tenodesis procedure (moving the tendon attachment to a different location).
• Distal biceps tendon tears: More commonly require surgery to help regain forearm rotation and flexion strength. Surgery typically involves reattaching the tendon back to its anatomic attachment site on the radius bone in the forearm using anchors or suture buttons.
• If surgery is indicated it is performed them as quickly as possible from the injury. When surgery is performed in a delayed fashion a cadaver graft is often needed to help reconstruct the tendon.
• Post-surgery, the arm is usually immobilized in a sling or brace for a short period to promote healing and then motion is begun rather quickly to help restore full range of motion.
• Physical therapy is an important part of the recovery process to regain motion and strength.

Alternative Treatments for Partial Tears or Strains:

• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections: This involves injecting a concentrated mixture of the patient’s own platelets into the injured area to encourage healing. PRP is still considered an experimental treatment for bicep tears.
• Stem cell therapy: This experimental treatment involves injecting stem cells into the affected area to potentially accelerate healing.

How To Prevent a Bicep Tear

To help prevent a bicep tear, you can take the following precautions:

• Warm up and stretch: Always warm up before exercise or other strenuous activities. Include gentle stretches for your biceps and surrounding muscles to improve flexibility and lower the risk of injury.
• Strengthen your muscles: Incorporate biceps-specific exercises and full-body strength training into your routine. Gradually increase the resistance and intensity to build strength over time. Don’t neglect other muscle groups; a balanced physique can help prevent injuries.
• Use proper form: When lifting weights or performing exercises that target your biceps, maintain proper form. Avoid jerking or swinging the weights, and keep your movements controlled. If you’re unsure about proper technique, consult a certified fitness professional.
• Don’t overload: Gradually increase the weight or resistance in your biceps exercises. Avoid trying to lift too much too soon, as this can put excessive strain on your tendons and increase the risk of a tear.
• Maintain a balanced workout routine: Don’t focus solely on your biceps. Incorporate exercises for your triceps, shoulders, back, and other muscle groups to maintain balance and prevent overuse injuries.
• Listen to your body: If you feel pain or discomfort in your biceps during or after exercise, stop the activity and rest. Pushing through pain can lead to injury.
• Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet: Proper hydration and nutrition can help keep your muscles and tendons healthy and reduce the risk of injury.

Bicep Tear Recovery

Bicep tear recovery depends on the severity of the tear and the treatment approach chosen (non-surgical or surgical). Here’s what you can generally expect during the recovery process:

Non-Surgical Recovery:

• Initial rest period: You’ll need to rest your arm and avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks to allow the torn tendon to heal.
• Pain management: Over-the-counter pain medications and ice can help manage pain and swelling.
• Gradual rehabilitation: After the initial healing phase, you’ll likely begin physical therapy to gradually regain strength and range of motion in your arm. This may include gentle stretching, isometric exercises, and eventually, light resistance training.
• Full recovery: The recovery time for non-surgical treatment can vary, but it typically takes around 6 months to improve strength and function.

Surgical Recovery:

• Immobilization: After surgery, your arm will be placed in a sling or brace to keep it immobilized and protect the repaired tendon. This phase usually lasts for 4-6 weeks.
• Pain management: Your doctor may prescribe pain medication to help manage post-surgical discomfort.
• Physical therapy: Once your surgeon determines it’s safe, you’ll begin physical therapy to gradually restore range of motion, strength, and function in your arm. Therapy usually begins with passive exercises with a stepwise progression to active movement and resistance training.
• Return to activities: The timeline for returning to sports or strenuous activities varies depending on your progress and your surgeon’s recommendations. It can take several months to fully return to pre-injury activities.
• Full recovery: Complete recovery after surgical repair can take anywhere from 6 months to a year, depending on the individual and the extent of the tear.

Consult the Experts at TSAOG

If you suspect you have a bicep tear or are seeking expert guidance on treatment and recovery, look no further than the skilled orthopedic specialists at TSAOG. With over 42 subspecialty-trained orthopedic experts across a wide range of areas and a commitment to patient care that spans generations, TSAOG is your trusted partner in overcoming bicep tears and other musculoskeletal disorders.

Don’t wait – book an appointment today and take the first step towards recovery.

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References:

• https://www.tsaog.com/services/complex-shoulder-elbow/
• https://www.tsaog.com/services/shoulder-and-elbow-specialists/
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XKIDEheZYEA
• https://www.tsaog.com/services/therapy/physical-therapy/
• https://tsaog.radixhealth.com/dash/self/