If you’ve been living in Brisbane lately, you’ve probably noticed our weather has been doing some pretty wild things. One day it’s sunny and warm, the next we’re hit with storms, humidity spikes, or sudden temperature drops. And if you’re dealing with chronic pain, you might be wondering: “Is this crazy weather making my pain worse?”
This current crazy Brisbane weather has made me think about whether or not weather can actually influence our pain levels.
As someone who used to live and treat clients in cold, windy, rainy South Australia, I have definitely noticed that chronic pain patients in here Brisbane are able to manage their pain more effectively. This is just a personal observation and there are many, many factors that contribute to this… but, is weather one of them?
Why Does Weather Affect Pain?
Approximately 60% of people living with chronic pain believe that the weather influences their pain. Most report that warm weather improves their pain while cold weather worsens their symptoms. What does this come down to?
- Shivering: Our bodies natural response to cold is shivering, to curl up and preserve as much body temperature as possible. This can lead to tight muscles and stiff joints.
- Synovial Fluid: Within all of our joints we have a protective, nutrient rich fluid called synovial fluid. It is thought that synovial fluid does its job better in warmer climates, although more solid research is needed to support this claim.
- Activity Levels: We tend to be less active in colder, wetter weather because it’s not as nice being outside and exercising. Less movement typically worsens pain, especially chronic pain like fibromyalgia and arthritis.
- Less Vitamin D: Less time in the sun can lead to nutrient deficiencies which worsen chronic pain conditions.
- Dehydration: This is a factor that is likely a con for hot weather. You’re more likely to be dehydrated in warmer climates with that burning sun sucking all the water out of you, leaving your muscles, fascia and very thirsty nerves (yes they require a lot) depleted.
- Increased Inflammation: Inflammation may increase with quick changes in weather.
- Sinus Headaches: with quick changes in weather, from one extreme to another, allergies can often be stirred up. This can result in sinus headaches.
What Conditions Are Most Likely To Be Affected?
The most likely conditions to be affected by weather changes are inflammatory and chronic pain conditions such as:
- Arthritis
- Headaches + Migraines
- Fibromyalgia
- Myofascial Pain Syndrome
- Joint Pain
What Can You Do About It?
While you can’t control Brisbane’s unpredictable weather, you can take steps to manage your pain:
- Stay Active: Even gentle movement like walking, stretching, or swimming can help maintain flexibility and reduce stiffness. Look towards home-work outs when the storms hit.
- Apply Heat: Heat packs and/or creams can soothe stiff muscles and joints, anti-inflammatory creams like Fisiocrem can help with excess inflammation. Experiment to see what works best for you.
- Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration helps maintain tissue elasticity and manages inflammation.
- Book a Myotherapy Session: Regular Myotherapy treatment can help manage chronic pain, improve mobility, and address muscle tension before weather changes trigger a flare-up.
- Monitor the Weather: Keep an eye on weather forecasts (check out the Bureau of Meteorology for Brisbane’s latest conditions) so you can plan ahead when big changes are coming.
The Bottom Line
If you feel like Brisbane’s wild weather is making your pain worse, you’re not imagining it. Many people experience weather-related pain fluctuations, and while the scientific evidence is still emerging and relies heavily on self-reported data, it’s important to remember that pain itself is inherently subjective – making patient experience a valuable and legitimate measure of their condition. The good news is that with the right strategies and professional support, you can manage these symptoms effectively. It’s also a huge bonus that most of the time Brisbane weather is sunny and wonderful.
If you’re struggling with weather-related pain or chronic discomfort, Myotherapy can help. We work with your body’s soft tissues to reduce tension, improve circulation, and restore function – giving you the tools to feel better regardless of what’s happening outside.
Don’t let the weather control your life. Book a session and let’s work together to keep you moving comfortably, rain or shine.
References
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Bureau of Meteorology Australia. (2025). “Brisbane weather and warnings.” Retrieved from http://www.bom.gov.au/
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