Summer is a time for outdoor activities, sports, and fun in the sun. However, it’s also a season when orthopedic injuries occur more frequently. Whether it’s engaging in sports, hiking, swimming, or simply being more active, there are various injuries and common joint injuries that can damper your summer fun. Let’s explore some of the most prevalent orthopedic injuries we see during the summer and provide tips on how to prevent them.
- Sprains and Strains: One of the most common injuries during the summer is sprains and strains. These can occur while playing sports such as pickleball, basketball, tennis, or even while hiking or running. Ankle sprains and muscle strains are particularly common. Prevent Sprains and Strains: It’s important to warm up adequately before engaging in physical activity, wear appropriate footwear with good ankle support, and gradually increase the intensity of your workouts.
- Fractures: With more people participating in outdoor activities during the summer, the risk of fractures also increases. Fractures can occur from falls while biking, skateboarding, or simply running on uneven terrain. Prevent Fractures: Wearing protective gear such as helmets and knee pads can significantly reduce the risk of fractures. It’s also important to be mindful of your surroundings and avoid risky behaviors that could lead to falls.
- Shoulder Injuries: Swimming, tennis, and other summer sports can put a strain on the shoulders, leading to injuries such as rotator cuff tears, tendonitis, and dislocations. Prevent Shoulder Injuries: It’s essential to maintain good posture, strengthen the muscles surrounding the shoulder joint, and avoid overexerting yourself during physical activities.
- Heat-related injuries: While not an orthopedic injury, heat-related injuries are very common during the summer. Heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke are important to look out for. In July and August 2023, more than 300 out of every 100,000 emergency department visits were for heat-related illnesses, according to a new CDC report. Prevent Heat-related Injuries: Staying hydrated and avoiding outdoor activities on extremely hot and humid days is crucial. Always use sun protection and plan your outdoor activities for the cooler parts of the day.
- Overuse Injuries: Engaging in activities such as long-distance running, pickleball, or tennis without proper training and recovery can lead to overuse injuries such as tendonitis, stress fractures, and muscle strains. Prevent Overuse Injuries: We tend to see more overuse injuries during the summer months and to prevent them, it’s important to incorporate rest days into your workout routine, cross-train to avoid repetitive stress on specific muscles and joints. It is also important to gradually increase the intensity and duration of your activities during the summer to avoid overuse.
While summer is a time for fun and outdoor activities, it’s crucial to be aware of the common injuries and joint injuries that can occur. By taking proactive measures such as warming up adequately, wearing protective gear, maintaining good posture, and practicing heat safety, you can significantly reduce the risk of injury and take charge of your health, ensuring a safe and active summer. If you are experiencing any pain this summer, don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule an appointment because your health is in your hands.