Shake Off Winter Stiffness

After months of icy sidewalks and indoor hibernation, many Calgarians notice the same thing when spring approaches: stiffness.

Whether from bracing against the cold or prolonged sitting, winter takes a toll on the body. When the weather finally warms up, tight hips, sore backs and joints that don’t move the way they used to can suddenly become noticeable.

For athlete and chiropractor Bradford Recsky at the MRU Injury & Prevention Clinic, helping people move freely again is a familiar part of the seasonal rhythm. Recsky focuses on keeping patients active and confident. “I like to say I have people’s backs,” he says with a grin. “My goal is to make sure your spine isn’t stopping you from doing the things you want to do.”

As people start heading back outside this spring, here are Recsky’s tips for easing back into movement:

1. Winter can leave the body stiff

“Everyone’s a bit stiff right now,” Recsky says. “They haven’t been able to do the things they normally do.”

Less movement during colder months can reduce joint mobility and make everyday activities feel harder than they should. For some people, even returning to routines like walking or gardening can feel surprisingly challenging after a sedentary winter.

2. Restricted joints affect everyday movement

Spinal joints help the body bend, twist and stabilize. When they aren’t moving properly, the body often sends signals that something isn’t right.

“Your body reminds you that it’s stuck and stiff,” Recsky says. That discomfort can show up in simple daily activities — sitting at a desk, standing for long periods or trying to maintain good posture.

“If your joints aren’t moving well,” he says, “it becomes harder to do what you want to do."

3. Movement matters more than perfect posture

“People think perfect posture is the answer,” he explains. “But the more you move around, the better your body tends to feel.”

Standing up, stretching and shifting positions throughout the day can help keep joints mobile and reduce stiffness — especially for students and desk workers.

4. Different bodies have different demands

Spinal mobility needs vary depending on age and activity level.

Athletes often push their bodies harder and experience more acute injuries. “Athletes tend to be harder on their bodies,” Recsky says. “We’re often putting out fires.”

Older adults may simply need more time to recover as they return to seasonal activities. “As you get older,” he says, “healing just takes more time.”

5. Care doesn’t have to start with pain

Many people wait until pain becomes severe before seeking care. But Recsky says chiropractic treatment can also play a preventative role.

“A lot of patients come in for maintenance care every four to 16 weeks,” he says. “It’s much easier to maintain mobility than to fix a bigger problem later.”

6. Small daily habits add up

Outside the clinic, everyday habits also influence spinal health.

“People sit a lot,” Recsky says. “So simple things like moving more, eating well and staying hydrated really matter.” Even small changes — like taking regular breaks from sitting or adding short walks to your day — can help keep the body feeling mobile and resilient.

7. Ease back into activity

When warmer weather arrives, many people jump straight back into activity. Recsky encourages a slower approach. “Start slow and warm up,” he says. “Don’t go too hard too fast.”

Gradually rebuilding strength and mobility can help prevent injuries and make the transition into spring activities smoother.

Supporting spinal health at MRU

At the MRU Injury & Prevention Clinic, appointments typically begin with a health history and movement assessment, followed by a treatment plan tailored to a patient’s lifestyle.

“When your spine is moving well,” he adds, “it’s easier to hold yourself well and feel confident in your body.”

Quick Q&A: Chiropractic Care and Spinal Mobility

Why do people feel stiff after winter?

Cold weather and reduced activity can cause muscles and joints to tighten, while spending more time sitting indoors can reduce spinal mobility.

Can chiropractic care help with more than back pain?

Yes. Chiropractors often assess the whole body and may help address issues involving the neck, hips, shoulders and certain types of headaches.

How often should someone see a chiropractor?

It depends on individual needs, but many patients choose maintenance visits every four to 16 weeks to support mobility.

Ready to move better? 

From April 1-30, we’re offering initial chiropractic assessments for just $60 (for Mount Royal students and employees). Let’s find your restrictions before they find you. Book now.