As the days grow shorter and the chill of winter sets in, many people across New Zealand begin to notice a familiar discomfort—aching joints that seem to worsen with the season. While cold weather can tighten muscles and reduce circulation, there may be another factor contributing to your winter joint pain: low vitamin D levels.
Why Vitamin D Matters for Joint Health and Kiwis
Vitamin D isn’t just about bone health—it also plays a vital role in reducing inflammation, supporting immune function, and promoting calcium absorption. When your vitamin D levels drop, your body may struggle to regulate inflammation effectively, increasing joint sensitivity and discomfort.
Research has shown a strong association between low vitamin D levels and chronic pain, particularly in the muscles and joints. One study published in The Clinical Journal of Pain found that individuals with chronic musculoskeletal pain were significantly more likely to be vitamin D deficient compared to those without pain.[1]
New Zealand’s latitude means that during the winter months, the sun’s angle is too low for sufficient UVB radiation to reach the earth’s surface—especially between May and August. That means even if you’re outside, your skin may not be able to produce the vitamin D your body needs.
Studies suggest that up to 50% of New Zealanders may be vitamin D deficient during the winter, particularly those living in the South Island or those who spend most of their time indoors. This is why winter joint pain may not just be about cold weather—it may be a biochemical imbalance that’s quietly affecting your comfort and mobility.
Signs of Low Vitamin D
Some of the signs of low vitamin D can be subtle, but common symptoms include:
- Persistent joint or muscle pain
- Fatigue or low-energy
- Bone tenderness
- Mood changes, including seasonal blues
- Increased frequency of colds or infections
Suppose you’re noticing more joint stiffness and discomfort during the winter months, especially without changing activity levels. In that case, it might be worth investigating your vitamin D levels through a simple blood test.
What You Can Do
To support healthy vitamin D levels and reduce inflammation-related joint pain during the colder months, consider the following:
- Spend short periods in natural sunlight when possible (especially midday)
- Eat foods rich in vitamin D, such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified non-dairy milk.
- Take a vitamin D supplement, ideally after consulting your healthcare provider
- Stay active, as movement helps keep joints lubricated and reduces stiffness
- Monitor posture and alignment, as structural imbalances can compound joint stress.
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Joint Pain Has Many Layers— Let’s Explore Yours.
If your joints feel stiffer than usual this winter, it might not just be the cold. Low vitamin D levels are a common—but often overlooked—contributor to joint discomfort. Identifying and addressing this simple deficiency can make a meaningful difference in how you move and feel throughout the season.
Do you want to understand more about your joint health and what else could contribute to your discomfort? Please book a consultation with Norwest Chiropractic, and let’s take a closer look at how your body functions. Together, we can create a care plan that supports your movement, comfort, and well-being—season after season.
Sources: 1. Plotnikoff, G.A., Quigley, J.M. 2003. Prevalence of Severe Hypovitaminosis D in Patients With Persistent, Nonspecific Musculoskeletal Pain. The Clinical Journal of Pain.