By Andrius Giedraitis, MD
Interventional Pain Medicine, Blanchard Valley Pain Management

Cold mornings, icy sidewalks and shorter days are all familiar parts of Ohio winters. For many people, however, the season also brings an unwelcome companion: increased joint and muscle pain. If your knees feel stiffer, your back aches more, or your sleep is disrupted when temperatures drop, you’re not imagining it. Seasonal changes in temperature and barometric pressure can aggravate sensitive areas of the body, including the neck, shoulders, low back, hips and knees.

Many individuals living with arthritis or chronic pain conditions notice symptoms worsen during colder months. For mild discomfort, simple remedies such as rest, heating pads, gentle stretching, or over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help. Physical therapy and guided home exercises can also improve strength, flexibility and mobility.

But when pain persists despite these efforts — or begins interfering with daily activities, work, or sleep — it may be time to consider additional treatment options. The important thing to remember is that ongoing pain is not something you simply have to live with.

One non-surgical option available through pain management specialists is radiofrequency ablation (RFA). This minimally invasive procedure targets tiny nerve fibers that transmit pain signals from joints and other structures. When these nerves become irritated or inflamed, they can continue sending pain messages even after the original cause has improved.

During RFA, a physician uses live X-ray guidance to place a small needle precisely near the affected nerve. A controlled application of heat disrupts the nerve’s ability to send pain signals. These specific nerves control pain sensation only — not movement — making them safe to treat. The procedure typically takes about 15 minutes, requires no surgical incision and is usually performed with light sedation for comfort. Most patients return to normal activities the following day, although full relief may develop gradually over several weeks.

While winter weather can intensify aches and stiffness, effective solutions are available. Modern pain management treatments like radiofrequency ablation are safe, evidence-based and often covered by insurance. If chronic pain is limiting your daily life, a consultation with a pain specialist can help determine whether a minimally invasive treatment could provide relief.

Staying active and comfortable year-round is possible — even during Ohio’s coldest months.