The summer is a perfect time when we all choose to go on vacation with our family and friends. A large number of people including children also tend to enjoy summer sports during summer vacation. People take up various activities such as cycling, trekking, swimming, running, trekking, gymnastics and skating. Further, one is at risk of orthopaedic injuries and mishaps due to such activities.
“You will be shocked to know that back, knee, and shoulder pain, strain and sprains, fractures, and falls are commonly seen in many people during the summer months. To prevent orthopaedic injuries, it is imperative to stretch and warm up before any activity, buy appropriate shoes and clothes, ensure you are hydrated enough, and rest to recover from any type of injury that makes it difficult for you to do your daily chores,” said Dr Pramod Bhor, Director of Orthopedics and Robotic Joint Replacement Surgeon, Fortis Hospital, Vashi.
The Cause of orthopaedic injuries during summer
“The weather is warm and the days are long during summer which makes it an ideal time for everyone to get active and try different activities to stay healthy and maintain an optimum weight. So, there is a spike in the number of people going for swimming, cycling, gymming, trekking, running, football, basketball, beach volleyball, tennis, water sports, cricket, skating, children attending summer camps, Kho Kho, badminton and many more. No doubt that these activities help one to stay fit but they can be a nightmare for a few causing serious orthopaedic injuries,” said Dr Bhor.
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“After the pandemic, people have started gathering and opting for various activities that help them spend some quality time together or learn a new skill. Unfortunately, they take up activities without understanding the repercussions. People are not aware of their fitness levels, fail to take enough protective measures, and just do it because others are also doing it,” said Dr Bhor.
Remember, doing any activities mindlessly can make one prone to injuries during summer. Hence, shoulder, back, elbow, and knee pain wear and tear of the cartilage, ligament (ACL) tear, fractures, sprains, strains, falls, ankle and foot injuries, and playground injuries can be a matter of concern for children as well as adults who fail to do warm-up, cooling down and stretching before taking up any activities.
Overuse or overtraining muscles can cause muscular tears and inflammation and one will suffer from tennis elbow and tenosynovitis (inflammation of the lining of the sheath that surrounds a tendon (the cord that joins muscle to bone).
Tips to avoid orthopaedic injuries during summer
“To enjoy summer without any pain or injuries, warm up before any activity and cool down after exercising, stick to a balanced diet inclusive of all the vital nutrients, and stretch before you play any sport or activity,” Dr Bhor stated.
As per Dr Bhor, dehydration causes muscle cramps, dizziness, increased heartbeats, fatigue, and fainting so drink at least 12 glasses of water daily, rest enough, and wear the right equipment to protect your body that is well-fitted shoe shoes, helmets, gloves, and protective pads of premium quality.
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If you are experiencing pain, tired, or know you have an injury then stop the activity immediately and resume only after the doctor’s advice. Injuries will take time to heal, so don’t be in a hurry and follow the guidelines given by the doctor. Stay well-informed about your injury to avoid any complications or long-term damage.