We tend to think of aches and pains as being associated with the cold and damp of winter. However, the heat of the summer months can exacerbate many problems. Leaving some people coping with pain when they should be enjoying their summer holidays.

In the summer months peoples’ routines often change. Things like going on holiday, sleeping in different beds, a change of exercise regimes or more activity than usual can result in a flare-up of chronic pain or new symptoms appearing for the first time.

The actual temperature can have an effect too. It can result in a prolonged period of inflammation and swelling following a tissue injury. 

Preparing in advance for these events is the best form of defense. For example:-

– If you get a sore neck when sleeping away from home, take your pillow with you.

– If you usually lead a sedentary lifestyle, gradually introduce more activity into your day-to-day life — certainly a good few weeks before setting off on a week-long walking holiday in the Lakes.

– If you have an allotment that requires tending, take regular breaks from kneeling and be sure to stretch gently afterwards.

– If you know that it will be 34 degrees, plan your run for earlier in the day. Plus, make sure that you hydrate properly both before and after exercise. [ see our blog How To Avoid Dehydration and cramp ]

The ITV progamme ‘This Morning’ recently covered the the topic of chronic pain and the best way of coping with pain in the summer months. Here is a link to the story, which gives advice on exercises that can help.

https://www.itv.com/thismorning/articles/coping-with-chronic-pain-in-the-heat-this-summer

If you have found yourself struggling with pain recently, give us a call at WBIC to see what we can do to help.