Summer is a time for fun and relaxation, but it can also be a time for injuries. With more people spending time outdoors, there is an increased risk of accidents and injuries. Physical therapists are often called upon to help people recover from these injuries.
Some of the most common summer injuries that require physical therapy:
- Ankle sprains: Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries, especially in sports like basketball, soccer, and tennis. They occur when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn. Symptoms of an ankle sprain include pain, swelling, and bruising.
- Knee injuries: Knee injuries are another common summer injury. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including sports, accidents, and overuse. Symptoms of a knee injury can include pain, swelling, and stiffness.
- Back pain: Back pain is a common problem that can be exacerbated by summer activities like gardening, yard work, and hiking. Symptoms of back pain can include pain, stiffness, and numbness or tingling in the legs.
- Shoulder injuries: Shoulder injuries are also common, especially in sports like swimming, volleyball, and baseball. Symptoms of a shoulder injury can include pain, swelling, and weakness.
How to prevent common summer injuries
- Warm up before exercising. Warming up helps to prepare your body for activity and can help to prevent injuries.
- Cool down after exercising. Cooling down helps your body to recover from exercise and can also help to prevent injuries.
- Wear proper footwear. Wearing proper footwear can help to protect your feet and ankles from injuries.
- Listen to your body. If you are feeling pain, stop what you are doing and rest. Pushing through pain can increase your risk of injury.
- Stay hydrated. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and muscle cramps, which can increase your risk of injury.
- Avoid excessive sun exposure. Excessive sun exposure can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which can also increase your risk of injury.
If you do sustain an injury, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Physical therapy can help you to recover from your injury and prevent it from happening again.
The benefits of physical therapy for injuries
- Reduce pain and inflammation. Physical therapy can help to reduce pain and inflammation, which can help you to feel more comfortable and move more easily.
- Increase range of motion. Physical therapy can help to increase your range of motion, which can help you to regain your full function.
- Strengthen muscles. Physical therapy can help to strengthen the muscles around the injured area, which can help to prevent further injury.
- Improve balance and coordination. Physical therapy can help to improve your balance and coordination, which can help you to reduce your risk of falls and other accidents.
If you have sustained a summer injury and are in the Waco or Clifton, Texas area, please contact Elite Sports Waco to schedule an appointment with a physical therapist. We can help you to recover from your injury and get back to enjoying the summer activities you love.