What Makes Summer a Bad Time for Back Pain?

Although summer typically brings many exciting and enjoyable experiences and opportunities, it also can come with extra challenges for those who suffer from regular back pain. Instead of having adventures, you could require spinal decompression or other chiropractic care. What about this season can lead to aggravated back pain? What can you do to have fun this summer while keeping the risks for this symptom? Read on to find out more!

Temperature Changes and Inflammation

Even though humans are warm blooded, the weather does affect your body. Fluctuations in temperature can trigger inflammation in muscles throughout the body, which can cause pain, especially when these changes come with heat and humidity.

To combat the heat, keep your body hydrated and properly nourished during these hot months by drinking plenty of water and having a healthy diet throughout the day. Also, use ice or cold packs to reduce inflammation in your body.

Travel

Whether in the car or on a plane, traveling is often uncomfortable and involves quite a bit of sitting in a small space. Stuck in this position, your posture can suffer, allowing discs to come out of position and stiffness to set in.

If you can, get up and walk around about every hour or two. At minimum, try to reestablish healthy posture to ensure that your body stays comfortable throughout your entire journey.

Outdoor Activities

Sports, swimming, and water sports have become increasingly popular in recent years, but with it has come a rise in injuries, particularly to the back, as many people don’t use proper technique or stretch before getting started.

Before picking up a golf club, pickleball paddle, the rope attached to the boat, or even a shovel to garden, make sure you take time to stretch and at least know the basics of how to do it to avoid injury.

Poor Sleep

With more light, you may find it harder to get adequate sleep during summer nights. If you tend to pile on pillows, your risk of back and neck pain increases substantially.

Do your best to create a relaxing, restful environment in your bed and room. Put down your phone at least an hour before bedtime, close your blinds or consider blackout curtains, and try to go to bed at a reasonable time relative to the time you wake up.

The things you do during the summer give you memories for a lifetime, but if you’re not careful, these higher risks can put a damper on your fun. While you enjoy your summer, make sure you follow these tips to stay as safe as possible!

About the Author

Dr. Zinovy Chukhman, or Dr. Z, is concerned not only about your spinal health but your overall well-being. With more than 20 years of experience in rehabilitation, this board-certified chiropractor has passed all four parts with the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners and practices using many techniques, including the Graston, Diversified, and Thompson methods. If you have injured yourself this summer, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with Dr. Z at AlignRight Injury & Rehab Dallas online or call our office at 972-907-2800.