Medical professionals know that some injuries are seasonal, especially “summer injuries” that are due to sports or outdoor activities. Historically the month of May is when the weather is perfect for starting outdoor exercise or outdoor sports. It is for this reason that many emergency rooms, orthopedists, and chiropractors see sports injuries in May and early June. If you are thinking about playing sports, or if you are a regular outdoor athlete, May is the month to see your physical therapist. Even if you exercise all year round, you have a higher likelihood of encountering non-athletes attempting to play your sport, and their lack of experience can lead to your injury. Why?
April Showers Bring May….Injuries?
All outdoor sports have one thing in common: they attract more a
nd more people as the weather gets warmer. In group sports this can cause a problem because inexperienced athletes can actually pose a hazard to a team. Poor communication and a lack of skill can cause you to work hard, dig deeper, or receive a harder block simply because you are trying harder due to a teammate’s poor skill level. In non-team sports, such as jogging, injuries still occur more in summer months due to more people being outside and causing an obstacle. Joggers often strain muscles or injure themselves trying to avoid obstacles or people in a crowd.
How To Prepare For Summer
Natural Health Sports Therapy can treat sports specific injuries for all sports, especially outdoor activities. We offer treatment and training plans that help you maintain your fitness and also help prevent many types of injuries. This is often one marker of professional athletes and weekend warriors; the pro’s visit their physical therapist before they are injured, not after. Our physical therapists, chiropractors, and trainers can help you improve your form to actually prevent injuries while strengthening your body and improving your game.
The Most Common Sports Injury in May
The most common injury in the month of May is heat exhaustion and/or dehydration. Winter months and cold temperatures often mean that we drink less water than in the summer. If this becomes a habit, and you begin exercising vigorously in May, your chances of heat exhaustion or dehydration are very high. To prepare best you should increase your water intake systematically: drink 2 quarts daily for a week, then increase that amount to 3 quarts the following week. If you can consume a gallon, or 4 quarts, of water everyday then you should be properly hydrated for exercise. Be careful to not consume too much water, and as always, check with your primary care physican before starting any exercise program.
What To Do If You Are Injured
If you are injured you should consult with your primary care physician, or in an emergency or life-threatening situation call 911. If your injury is not life threatening call Natural Health Sports Therapy and learn how we can help you heal faster and better than ever before.