5 Reasons Why Summer Can Make Spine Pain Worse
Category: Back Pain | Author: Stefano Sinicropi
Minnesotans probably appreciate the warm summer months more than most, because we know what’s in store for winter, but summer can also offer some unique challenges for our spine. Today, we explain five reasons why summer can be difficult on your back, and why it can make spine pain worse.
Travel
Whether you’re taking a road trip for a holiday weekend or you’re zipping up to your cabin for vacation, summertime often involves hours of traveling in a car, a bus or on an airplane. Remaining seated for hours on end can stress your spine, especially if you have poor posture. Check out this blog post for five tips for alleviating spine pain on long road trips.
Sleep
Sleep can be harder to come by during the summer. For those of you without central air, you know how hard it can be to fall asleep and stay asleep in a hot room, and that can lead to an increase in spinal inflammation. Similarly, the days are longer and more sunlight can disrupt sleep, so try to make your room as dark as possible before you go to bed.
Activities
We also tend to be more active during the summer. We’re hiking, cycling, swimming, boating, running and spending our time out in the sun, all of which can benefit and harm our spine. Activity is great so long as your don’t overdo it and you’re using proper techniques. Before you head out to do something, make sure you’re hydrated and wearing the proper gear, otherwise your spine may be in trouble.
Gardening
You probably planted your garden during the spring, but summer is when you harvest the fruits (and vegetables) of your labor. If you’re going to be out in the garden for a while, take somen breaks so you’re not hunched over for long periods.
Amusement Parks
If you’re heading over to Valleyfair or road tripping to another amusement park, be smart so that you can walk out of there without spine pain. A day at the amusement park usually involves long periods of standing or walking, as well as some stress on your body while you’re on the rides. If you have a history of back pain, avoid some of the bigger rides that could throw your body all over in your seat, and be sure to take plenty of breaks so you can sit down. Overdoing it at the amusement park for one day can leave you with weeks or even months of back pain, so be smart before you hit the park.
