Winter in North Texas doesn’t always bring snow, but it does tend to slow people down. Even as many people set fresh health goals with the new year, shorter days, cooler temperatures and lingering aches can make it tempting to stay indoors and exercise less. However, maintaining mobility during the winter months is key to feeling strong and energized year-round.
That connection between movement and overall well-being is something Dr. Joel Wells, orthopedic surgeon and medical director of the Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – McKinney Hip Preservation Center, emphasizes with his patients.
“Bone and joint health is closely tied to both mental and physical health,” Wells said. “Regular movement, good nutrition and listening to your body all play a role—especially during times of the year when people tend to be less active.”
Seasonal stiffness and soreness are common, but ongoing pain or limited movement isn’t something people should simply push through.
“If pain or discomfort starts limiting what you can do—whether that’s exercising, running errands or just enjoying daily life—it’s a good idea to get it checked out,” Wells said.
Symptoms that may warrant an evaluation include:
- Persistent pain in the hips, knees, shoulders, back or limbs
- Swelling or stiffness that doesn’t improve
- Clicking, popping or catching sensations in the joints
- Pain that interferes with work, exercise or daily routines
Orthopedic care, right here in Collin County
Baylor Scott & White Health offers comprehensive orthopedic care across its Collin County locations, including a wide range of subspecialized orthopedic services and a walk-in orthopedic clinic open weekdays in McKinney, with no referral or appointment necessary. So, there’s no need to travel far for help getting moving again.
“Many people assume that seeing an orthopedist automatically leads to surgery, but that’s rarely the first step,” Wells said. “Our goal is to help people move better in whatever way makes sense for them.”
Non-surgical options often help patients stay mobile and comfortable during the colder months and may include:
- Medications to manage pain and inflammation
- Physical therapy to improve strength, flexibility and movement patterns
- Injections and other therapies to reduce inflammation and support healing
For residents dealing with hip pain, the Baylor Scott & White – McKinney Hip Preservation Center provides highly specialized care focused on maintaining or restoring long-term mobility. The center offers advanced diagnostic tools, ultrasound-guided injections and access to experienced physical therapists.
Hip preservation procedures, which address underlying structural issues, can often help patients avoid or delay hip replacement later in life.
“What sets Baylor Scott & White apart is that each hospital offers specialized expertise,” Wells said. “People in Collin County don’t have to go far to receive high-quality orthopedic care.”
Click here to learn more about Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – McKinney’s orthopedic services today.
Physicians provide clinical services as members of the medical staff at one of Baylor Scott & White Health’s subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and do not provide clinical services as employees or agents of Baylor Scott & White Health or those medical centers.
The above story was produced by the Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – McKinney team with Community Impact's Storytelling team, using information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
