If you've been feeling more achy, stiff or "creaky" than usual of late, you're certainly not alone. Health professionals warn that spring can subtly ramp up everyday aches and pains, owing to a potent combination of unpredictable weather, damp conditions and a sudden surge in physical activity following a largely inactive winter.

GP Nisa Aslam and advisor to Combogesic, said: "88% of Brits experience pain at least monthly according to new real-world data from my colleagues Combogesic, and spring's unpredictable mix of cold snaps, humidity and fluctuating air pressure can aggravate joint stiffness and trigger flare-ups. These shifts can affect joint tissues and fluid, leading to stiffness or pain, with those living with arthritis, musculoskeletal pain, fibromyalgia or migraines particularly affected.

"Research has also confirmed that weather really does affect pain. Wet and cold tolerance changes with the seasons and day-to-day weather fluctuations appear to influence how sensitive people are to pain."

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Dr Aslam explained: "Drops in barometric pressure can reduce pressure on the body, allowing tissues and joints to expand slightly and trigger pain - particularly in people with joint or muscle conditions - while headaches and sciatica pain may also worsen. Damp, humid days can make joints feel more swollen, and spring allergies can increase body-wide inflammation and may make joints and muscles painful and sore.

"Rapid temperature swings also play a role, tightening joints in the cold and expanding tissues in sudden warmth. And it's not just the weather. As the days get brighter, many of us suddenly ramp up activity - from gardening and DIY to running and spring cleaning - putting extra strain on muscles and joints that may not be conditioned after winter."

Dr Nisa Aslam offered the following guidance:

Layer up your clothing: This prevents muscles and joints from becoming cold and seizing up, whilst helping you adapt more easily to fluctuating temperatures.

Opt for anti-inflammatory foods: Include leafy greens (spring greens, spinach), berries and omega-3-rich options (salmon, walnuts, flaxseed) in your diet. Cut back on processed foods, which can trigger inflammation.

Choose appropriate pain relief: Studies reveal half of Britons rely on paracetamol, with nearly a quarter (23%) combining paracetamol with codeine. However, codeine is an opioid that isn't appropriate for everyone and may trigger nausea, constipation, dizziness and headaches - plus carries risks of addiction and overdose. She noted that Combogesic was opioid-free, for instance.

Build up to spring activities gradually: Increase outdoor pursuits in duration and intensity progressively over several weeks, incorporating proper warm-up and cool-down routines, along with correct lifting techniques whether handling gym weights or household and garden items. Steer clear of extended repetitive tasks like weeding or scrubbing, taking regular breaks and maintaining upright posture.

Get on top of allergies: Manage spring allergies as they cause inflammation, which may affect the joints too. Stay indoors when the pollen count is high.

Stay hydrated: Lack of fluid affects the joints and can cause pain and stiffness.

Try gentle movement: Yoga, Pilates, swimming and walking can improve circulation and loosen joints.