Keep Your Hands Warm: Stay Active in The Cold
Author: Justin Stehr, Occupational Hand Therapist
Stay Active and Comfortable This Winter with MetaFlex Gloves
Cold weather can make staying active difficult, especially for those with osteoarthritis (OA) or Raynaud’s phenomenon. When exposed to the cold, these conditions often worsen, leading to increased pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. However, MetaFlex Gloves are designed to help by retaining heat and improving circulation, making it an essential tool for winter wellness.
Osteoarthritis affects over 303 million people globally, causing joint pain and stiffness, particularly in the hand. Cold temperatures can exacerbate these symptoms, making everyday activities even more challenging. Similarly, Raynaud's phenomenon triggers spasms in the blood vessels of the fingers, causing them to turn white or blue due to restricted blood flow.
Studies show that keeping hands warm through heat-retaining gloves like MetaFlex helps to reduce symptoms of both conditions. Research has demonstrated that warmth can prevent vasospasms in Raynaud's and improve flexibility in OA, allowing individuals to remain active even in cold weather.
In addition to keeping your hands warm, exercise is a crucial component in managing OA pain. Functional activities—everyday tasks that require movement—can be turned into simple exercises using the finger resistance bands, which help build strength and mobility in the hands. Research has shown that exercise-based rehabilitation is effective in reducing pain and improving function in people with OA. The immediate benefits of exercise are clear, but long-term success relies on consistency. This is why incorporating exercises into daily life, such as during functional tasks, can make the process easier to maintain over time.
For more information on how MetaFlex Gloves can improve your winter wellness, visit MetaFlex Glove.
Stay warm, stay active, and protect your joints this season!
(Research: Nawaz et al., 2022, Rheumatology Study, 2023, Huang et al., 2024)