Summer invites us outdoors for swimming, sports, gardening, and vacations. Unfortunately, heat, long activity hours, and unfamiliar movements can increase back strain during summer activities. By combining smart activity planning with chiropractic care, you can keep your spine healthy while enjoying the season.
Why Summer Activities Can Be Hard on Your Back
Warm weather encourages more physical activity, which is great for health—but sudden increases in movement can strain muscles and joints. Activities like kayaking, yard work, and beach volleyball involve repetitive motions or awkward lifting that can irritate the spine.
Hydration: A Key to Spinal Comfort
Dehydration affects more than energy—it impacts spinal discs, which rely on fluid to cushion vertebrae. Aim for consistent water intake throughout the day, especially when spending time outdoors in heat.
Posture and Body Mechanics for Summer Activities
- Sports: Warm up before playing to prepare muscles.
- Gardening: Bend at the knees, not the waist.
- Swimming: Alternate strokes to avoid muscle imbalance.
A chiropractor can assess your posture before the season begins, ensuring your spine is ready for increased activity.
Cooling Down and Recovery
Stretching after activity helps muscles relax and reduces tension. If soreness develops, ice therapy within the first 24 hours can reduce inflammation.
When to See a Chiropractor
Persistent pain, stiffness, or numbness after activity may indicate spinal misalignment. Early chiropractic adjustments can restore mobility and prevent further injury.
Conclusion:
With the right hydration, posture, and chiropractic support, you can beat the summer heat without back pain—leaving more time for fun and less for recovery.
Contact Laird Chiropractic today to get the support you need to do the activities you love.
