Watch Out for Summer Injuries
Watch Out for Summer Injuries
Summer in the South is prime time for outdoor activities, taking advantage of the bright blue sky and warm temperatures. That first sunny day, it’s tempting to head outside and dive into all those activities we’ve been putting off… from yard work to outdoor sports and our favorite hobbies.
Of course, like anything you haven’t done in a while, these summer activities can create the potential for injuries, whether from overexertion, repetitive motion, or insufficient warm up. Some of the most common sources of summertime injuries include the following:
Sports Injuries
● Both tennis and golf are notorious sources of possible strain and injury, including rotator cuff issues, knee and ankle injuries plus possible back strain. You can avoid many of these with proper stretching both before and after, as well as using proper form. A sports coach can help a great deal in avoiding pain and injury.
● Whether you consider yourself an amateur athlete or a weekend warrior, random games of soccer, softball, or basketball can also sideline you with potential injuries. If you’re not working with a team coach, you may want to consider a personal trainer to help you prepare for games, warm up and recover properly to stay healthy.
Other outdoor activities
● Yard work can be a possible source of pain and injury too. Bending and stooping to plant flowers or vegetables, continuously swinging a weedeater, or squeezing the lever on a lawn mower can also cause repetitive motion pain.
● Home improvement activities like painting, woodworking, and using hand tools are potential causes of tennis elbow (also known as lateral epicondylitis) and other repetitive motion injuries.
Some indoor activities too
● Not necessarily unique to summertime, there are a number of indoor activities that can lead to hand, wrist, and elbow pain and injuries over time. Tasks such as typing, writing by hand, and texting (especially using just your thumbs) can cause pain that may be avoided with proper tools. For example, use an ergonomic keyboard and mouse when you’re at the computer. Choose a phone case designed to help you hold your phone easily while texting or using apps. And, as always, take frequent breaks to rest and stretch whenever you’re engaged in a sustained period of repetitive motion.
In your rush to celebrate the start of summer, if you think you may have injured a bone or joint, be sure to see a specialist as soon as possible. Early treatment can minimize possible damage and simplify your treatment. Since 1972, the specialists at DOC Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine have been committed to providing exceptional orthopaedic care through innovative techniques, quality services, patient communication, and education. With specialties ranging from general orthopaedics and physical therapy to sports medicine, joint replacement, and more, the doctors at DOC Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine can provide local expert guidance to avoid injury, as well as any necessary care for any orthopaedic disorder or injury to help put your life back in motion.