Chiropractic Care for a Sensational Summer
Even in year-round sunny Florida, summer is synonymous with outdoor fun, from beach outings and hiking adventures to gardening and sports.
However, increased levels of physical activity can increase the risk of injuries and strains, making summer the perfect time to discuss the benefits of chiropractic care in maintaining and improving our health during some of our most active months.
The Connection Between Summer Activities and Chiropractic Care
Summer activities, while enjoyable, can also put a strain on our bodies. Gardening often involves bending, lifting, and twisting, which can lead to back pain. Similarly, sports like tennis, golf, and swimming require repetitive motions that can cause joint stress or muscle tension. Even casual activities like biking or walking on uneven terrain can result in injuries if we’re not careful.
Chiropractors use hands-on spinal manipulation and other helpful therapies to help your body heal itself without surgery or medication. This natural approach to healthcare is particularly beneficial during the active summer months when the risk of strain and injury is higher.
Summer Chiropractic Care Can Help Help Treat Common Warm Weather Injuries
Lower Back Pain — Lower back pain may be one of the most common complaints from adults,
especially after activities like gardening, lifting heavy objects (and grandchildren!), or even long drives to summer destinations. Chiropractors can provide spinal adjustments that help align the spine, relieve pain, and improve mobility. These adjustments can also reduce pressure on nerves and enhance the function of the nervous system, promoting overall well-being.
Shoulder Injuries — Activities such as swimming, playing tennis, or throwing a frisbee can lead to shoulder injuries like rotator cuff strains or tendinitis. Chiropractic adjustments, combined with specific exercises and stretches, can help restore proper shoulder function and alleviate pain. We may also use techniques like soft tissue therapy to reduce inflammation and improve muscle flexibility.
Knee Pain — Hiking, running, and cycling are great ways to enjoy the summer weather, but can also lead to knee pain or injuries. Chiropractic care can help by realigning the knee joint and addressing any imbalances in the surrounding muscles. Regular adjustments in my office can help alleviate pain while also enhancing the knee’s stability and function, preventing further injuries.
Ankle Sprains — Beach volleyball, hiking on uneven terrain, or simply tripping on a curb in your cute flip-flops can result in ankle sprains. Chiropractic care can accelerate healing by reducing inflammation and improving joint mobility.
Neck Pain — Spending long hours driving or looking down at your phone* while lounging by the pool can cause neck pain. Chiropractors can perform cervical adjustments to alleviate pain and improve neck mobility. They may also recommend ergonomic adjustments and exercises to prevent future issues.
*Tech Neck: Important to Consider This Summer and All Year!
When you look down at your phone, the angle at which your neck bends can significantly increase the pressure exerted on your cervical spine. The amount of pressure varies with the degree of the bend.
- At 0 degrees (looking straight ahead), the head weighs about 10-12 pounds.
- At 15 degrees, the pressure increases to about 27 pounds.
- At 30 degrees, the pressure increases to about 40 pounds.
- At 45 degrees, the pressure increases to about 49 pounds.
- At 60 degrees, the pressure increases to about 60 pounds.
These estimates are based on the typical weight of an adult human head and the effects of gravitational force when the head tilts forward at different angles. This phenomenon, often called “tech neck,” can lead to discomfort and potential long-term issues if proper posture is not maintained.
Summer Chiropractic Care Can Help Prevent Injury and Reduce Stress
In addition to treating common injuries, chiropractic care can play a crucial role in injury prevention. Regular chiropractic visits can help keep your body in optimal condition, reducing the risk of injuries. For instance, chiropractic adjustments can improve joint flexibility and overall mobility, making it easier for you to participate in various activities without pain or stiffness. Increased flexibility also reduces the likelihood of strains and sprains.
Plus, regular spinal adjustments can help you improve your posture, an essential ingredient for preventing injuries while also contributing to better breathing and energy levels to enhance your overall summer experience. Dr. Ebert can assess your posture and provide adjustments and exercises to correct imbalances.
While you’re at our office, ask about specific exercises to strengthen your core muscles and help you maintain stability during activities like hiking, swimming, or playing sports. Why? Because a strong core supports your spine and prevents lower back pain!
If summer travel and a busy social calendar have you feeling stressed, you may experience muscle tension and pain, making it harder to enjoy your summer. Consider adding a medical massage to your spinal adjustment appointment to reduce stress, relieve muscle tension, and promote relaxation. When combined with regular spinal adjustments, massage can improve nervous system function, allowing your body to handle stress more effectively.
Five Simple Summer Survival Tips to Stay Healthy and Active
If enjoying your summer months is as important to you as it is to us, we have five simple summer survival tips to maximize your enjoyment of summer activities and minimize the risk of injury. We encourage you to use them well!
1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
(And did we mention you should hydrate?) Proper hydration is essential for maintaining joint lubrication and muscle function. Drink plenty of water, especially during outdoor activities and hot weather.
2. Warm Up and Cool Down
Always take the time to warm up before engaging in physical activities. Gentle stretching and light exercises can prepare your muscles and joints for activity. Similarly, cooling down with stretches after exercise can prevent stiffness and soreness. It’s worth repeating: how often should you warm up and cool down? ALWAYS.
3. Use Quality Equipment
Whether gardening, playing sports, or hiking, use the appropriate equipment and wear supportive footwear. Proper gear can prevent injuries and enhance your performance.
Consider adding a lower back support belt to your equipment inventory for added lumbar support and injury prevention; we have several options to try in our office. Dr. Ebert, a certified chiropractic sports physician, can guide you to the one that best suits your unique needs.
4. Listen to Your Body
Pay attention to any signs of discomfort or pain. Pushing through pain can lead to more severe injuries. If you experience persistent pain, consider seeking chiropractic care for a thorough assessment and treatment. Please don’t wait for your pain to become intolerable before you get help! Prevention and mitigation are far more effective in fending off potential pain than waiting until you can barely move to seek treatment.
5. Maintain a Balanced Diet
A healthy diet supports muscle function and overall health. While all the calorie-dense food and drinks at backyard BBQ parties are fun and delicious, try to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to fuel your summer activities. Your body will thank you!
Chiropractic care is a valuable ally in maintaining your health and well-being throughout the year, especially during the highly active summer months. Whether you’re an avid gardener, a weekend warrior, or someone who enjoys leisurely walks on the beach, regular chiropractic adjustments can help ensure a pain-free, enjoyable summer by preventing injuries, enhancing mobility, and promoting overall wellness. Consult with Dr. Ebert to help you make the most of your summer activities.
When you’re searching for a “chiropractor near me,” you can feel confident directing all your chiropractic care-related questions to Dr. Vivian Ebert of LivingWell Chiropractic in Bonita Springs, FL, located in The Brooks Town Center at the northwest corner of Three Oaks Parkway and Coconut Road.
LivingWell Chiropractic provides state-of-the-art chiropractic care, spinal decompression, medical massage, and nutritional guidance with a holistic wellness approach focused on pain relief for patients with musculoskeletal conditions. Centrally located in Bonita Springs, the office is convenient for patients from Naples, Bonita Springs, Estero, and South Fort Myers.
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