Summertime
The beautiful warm weather that we’re having usually means more time outside, playing sports and doing yard work. We had what felt like an extra long winter this year, so returning to more activity may mean more aches, pains and sprains. Here are a few suggestions on how to keep yourself safe this season!
- Stay hydrated! Most people generally sweat more in warmer temperatures. Although sweating is a necessary process that cools the body, it results in the loss of water and salts in the body. Know the warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke (dizziness, weakness, lack of coordination and heavier than usual sweating accompanied by moist and cold skin). Drink something with electrolytes after exerting yourself outside.
- Warm Up and Cool Down – No matter what activity you’re participating in, taking even a five minute warm-up and cool-down period will help to elevate the heart rate and keep muscles warm and flexible, helping to prevent injury. Try jogging for five minutes before a run or doing jumping jacks before a workout as part of a warm-up routine. After a swim workout, try swimming slowly and focus on stretching out your stroke for a nice, easy cool-down.
- Treat Injury Early – If you start to feel some aches and pains, treat them before they become too much of a problem. Depending on the injury, gentle movement may help, as could compression and elevation. However, if you’re unsure it’s best to get it looked at by a health professional, whether it be an RMT, Athletic Therapist, Osteopath. Chiropractor, Physiotherapist or Physician, depending on the severity.
We hope that everyone has a safe summer, and we look forward to seeing you soon!