Pain Prevention for the Summer
By Brandi Goodman
Pain is never fun to deal with, yet it can pop up pretty quickly and for any number of reasons. A painful summer is normal for some who don't take precautions. With some tips in mind, however, pain prevention for the summer is possible.
Use Sunscreen
A common complaint in the warmer months is sunburn. If the sun is out and shining and you're outdoors, you're likely to get your skin burned. This results in some serious pain that may leave you not wanting to go out again for a while. Use sunscreen, applying several times throughout the day, and you should be able to prevent this type of painful problem.
Stretch Before Physical Activity
Physical activity and exercise can be tough on the body if you're not used to it. Before you head out on a bike ride, go to an amusement park, or even play catch with your kids, it's important to stretch. Stretching helps to prepare your joints for the activities ahead and ensure they're more likely to remain flexible while also preventing injury.
Engage Your Core Muscles While Boating
Boating is a common summer hobby. You'll be fine in calm waters, but big waves and rolling waters can do a lot of harm to your body. You need to be sure to engage your core muscles and hold your abdomen tight anytime you're in a rough area. Holding yourself still as the waves crash against the boat can prevent you from crashing against the boat yourself. You can avoid some aches this way.
Drink Lots of Water
Just as stretching helps your joints prepare for activity, so does drinking water. Your body needs to stay properly hydrated if you have any chance of preventing discomfort. Water will help you stay limber so you're less likely to get injured during physical activities. It will also prevent dehydration that can occur in the heat, leaving you feeling sick or just unlike yourself. Water can also help flush out inflammation. It can reduce swelling and help irritated areas of your body, eliminating even more aches.
Prevent pain all summer long by keeping some preventive measures in mind. You don't want to be stuck in bed with a sore back or shoulders because you didn't follow through with any precautions. Enjoy your summer pain-free and live life to the fullest.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Cary, N.C.