Summer activities bring an uptick in injuries

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – As summer rolls around and you are spending more time outdoors and doing more physical activity, there are a few things to keep in mind.

There is an uptick in injuries this time of year, and one common injury seen among doctors is strains and sprains.

Doctors recommend a mixture of cardiovascular activities and resistance training to keep yourself fit all year round, but don’t push yourself too hard.

Dr. Caleb Davis, doctor of orthopedic surgery at Graves Gilbert, says, “Anytime you’re getting back into any kind of sport activity, make sure you do it slowly, progress slowly even if you think you can do more. You don’t have to do it all in one day and just sort of see what you can tolerate. It’s important to make sure you stay hydrated take electrolytes before and after vigorous exercises, especially if it’s hot and you’re you are sweating a lot. And just as you can tolerate it, then you should ramp up your volume, but don’t do too much too quickly.”

After an injury, if you have pain and swelling, it’s important to start with ice and anti-inflammatories. If a week or two after your injury you have continued difficulty bearing weight and a decent amount of bruising and swelling after ice and rest, make sure you see your doctor if you haven’t done so already.

Graves Gilbert Clinic will be having a Health Walk on Saturday, June 15, 2024 from 7:30-9 a.m. at the Bowling Green Ballpark. Davis will be the featured provider at the health walk, for walkers to interact directly with and ask any health-related questions outside of the clinic setting. More information can be found at Graves Gilbert.