Simple Ways to Protect Your Joint Health During an Active Summer

Summer is the perfect time for Nashville residents to get out and enjoy all our area has to offer. Many people find it far easier to stay active when the weather is warmer. Plus, summertime is often when we choose to take time off and enjoy ourselves. 

While staying active is great for your overall health, you should take steps to protect your joints while you enjoy all those warm summer days. 

Robert J. Otto, MD, is here today to share some advice on how to keep your joints healthy as you get out and embrace your summer activities of choice here in Nashville, Tennessee, or while on vacation.

Gradually ramp up your activity level

Whether you’re a student out of classes for the summer or an adult who’s been saving up vacation time and is ready to hit the road, many people have a dramatic uptick in their activity levels during the summer months. 

While increasing your physical activity is great for your health and wellness, it’s important to take precautions to avoid damaging your joints. If you’ve been living a more sedentary lifestyle in the months leading up to summer vacation, be sure to ease into more rigorous physical activity. 

Going from sitting at a desk all day to playing tennis or volleyball, or running, in a short period of time doesn’t give your joints time to adjust. You can easily experience sprains or strains, or just overall joint inflammation if you push too hard, too fast. 

When planning your active days this summer, try to balance activities that put a lot of strain on your joints, such as jumping or running, with those that are easier on your joints, like swimming or walking. 

It’s also helpful to gradually ramp up your activity levels in the weeks leading up to a big vacation or active event. 

Staying hydrated is essential for healthy joints

You may only think of hydration in terms of the risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. But proper hydration is also key to keeping your joints healthy. When you become dehydrated, inflammation can rise, exacerbating joint pain. 

Aim to drink water consistently throughout the day rather than all at once, with a goal of about eight glasses daily. Be sure to choose summer treats with a high water content, like watermelon and other fruits, as well as low-sugar frozen treats. 

Pay close attention to your alcohol content, as well. It’s easy for drinks to add up during a day at the beach or by the pool or an outdoor concert or festival, but alcohol can contribute to dehydration, especially in hot weather. Keep an eye on caffeine as well, as it can also cause dehydration. 

Maintain your normal medication schedule

In the excitement of summer travel, many of us let our medication routines slide. But your body gets used to metabolizing medications on a routine schedule, and when you alter that timing, you can quickly run into trouble. 

Begin by making sure you pack your medications for summer trips. You can’t stay on track if you don’t have your prescriptions with you. 

You can also set timers on your phone to remind you when to take your medication. This is especially helpful if you’ll be in a different time zone (try to take meds on your home time) or engaged in lots of activities during the day. 

We’re always here when you need us

We offer these tips in the hopes of helping you prevent common joint issues during the summer months. However, if you develop joint symptoms this summer, know that we’re here to help with highly personalized care.

If you need diagnostic or treatment services or just want a joint health check-up before the busy summer season, call us or use our online booking tool to schedule an appointment at one of our locations in Nashville, Murfreesboro, or Cookeville, Tennessee.