Summer Tips for Joint Health
Summertime has officially arrived, and it comes with long days full of fun in the sun and all things outdoors. While summer is an ideal time to enjoy yourself, remember that this season can be hard on your joints – achy knees and hips resulting from excessive activities are common issues. Your natural inclination may be to sit out during the summer months, but with our helpful tips for joint health, you’ll soon find yourself loving every minute!
Start exercising in the morning to get your blood flowing for the day
Exercising in the morning can be a great way to start the day. Not only will it get your blood flowing and increase your alertness, but it also helps keep your joints healthy and flexible this summer. Morning exercise has been shown to help reduce joint pain and stiffness and improve balance and coordination. It’s also an excellent way to maintain muscle strength, especially as we age.
Remember that consistency is key if you’re just starting with morning exercise. It doesn’t have to be a hardcore workout – even just 10 minutes of stretching or light cardio can make a big difference in joint health over time.
Choose the right gear for summer activities
Here are some tips on choosing the right gear for the most common summer activities to protect joints:
- Running: Find shoes that fit properly, offer good cushioning, and have a flexible sole. Try them on at an outdoor running store to test how they feel when running outside.
- Hiking: Invest in comfortable and supportive hiking boots that fit your feet well and provide protection from rocks, roots, and sharp stones. Choose socks made of wicking material to help keep you cool and dry on long hikes.
- Swimming: Go for a swimsuit that offers good coverage and is made of lightweight, stretchy material. Look for support in the straps and waistband to keep everything in place when you swim long distances.
- Cycling: Make sure the bike fits your body type and size before purchasing. Look for well-padded seats to help ease the pressure on your joints while riding. Wear padded cycling shorts with elastic cuffs at the ankles to protect against abrasion and provide warmth without extra bulk.
- Beach volleyball: Choose a shoe that provides stability, cushioning, and good traction. Look for shoes with thick soles and flat bottoms to help support your feet while running around in the sand.
Use ice packs or an ice bath on sore joints to reduce pain and swelling
Ice packs and ice baths are effective remedies for sore or inflamed joints during summer. Not only do they reduce pain, but they can also help to lower swelling caused by inflammation.
Ice packs can be placed directly on a joint to provide targeted relief, while an ice bath can provide more widespread body cooling. Additionally, icing before and after exercise helps to reduce muscle pain and increase flexibility.
Be on your way to healthier joints this summer
With the right advice and preventive steps, Teton Outpatient Services orthopedics can help protect your joints this summer. Taking the time to stretch and exercise will benefit the health of your muscles and increase joint flexibility. You should be aware of any symptoms indicating a more serious problem and see a doctor when necessary.
Board-Certified Joint Replacement Surgeons Specializing in Knee, Hip and Shoulder Arthroplasty
Severe damage to your knee or hip from arthritis or injury can cause pain, loss of motion, and weakness, leading to difficulty performing daily activities like walking and dressing. Even sitting or lying down can be painful. When nonsurgical treatments such as medications, cortisone injections, and physical therapy don’t work, total joint replacement surgery may be a good option. It’s a safe and effective procedure that can relieve pain, correct deformity, and allow you to resume normal daily activities.
We encourage you to visit us soon for an examination. Schedule a consultation with one of our physicians today, and you will be on your way to healthier joints this summer!
