Summertime is in full swing, and that means warmer weather, outdoor adventures, and backyard sports. Unfortunately, Summer also means a plethora of possible injuries. While spending more time outdoors and being physically active is certainly great for you, it can also bring certain risks to your body. Here are some of the most common orthopedic injuries we see during the Summer.
Bursitis During the Summer
Bursa exists in various joints of your body and are small, liquid-filled sacs that act as cushions between bones and soft tissue. When the joints, most commonly in the shoulder, are used repetitively, the bursae may become inflamed, which causes the tissue to become swollen. This can cause a great deal of discomfort and pain due to what is called Bursitis. It’s a common injury during the summer because of repetitive motion activities such as tennis, baseball, yard work, and painting.
Tendonitis During the Summer
Tendons are essentially cords that connect the muscles to your bones. When they’re used in excess, they can be worn down over time, especially when used rigorously. When the tendons are worn down, they can become stiff and painful to move, manifesting itself in tendonitis. The most common places for tendonitis are the shoulder, elbow, fingers, knees, and ankle. It can be caused by running, playing sports, doing chores, and other common Summer activities.
Tendon Tears During the Summer
Long-term overuse, or even acute spontaneous injury, can cause a tendon to become partially torn or completely torn. Sports like soccer, basketball, and baseball call for rapid movements that can cause a tendon to tear, and running can cause wear and tear over time. A torn tendon is something to be taken very seriously, as they may require as little as physical therapy, a cortisone injection or at most reconstructive surgery. If you have lost motion, strength, or are experiencing lingering pain, it’s in your best interest to see a doctor.
Sprains During the Summer
Most people at some point have experienced a twisted ankle and can tell you just how painful it can be. When the ankle or other joints twist or stretch, ligaments can be damaged and stretched too far causing a sprain in the joint. Most commonly seen in Summer sports, a joint sprain can be extremely painful and keep you from being able to use the joint. Minor sprains can be nursed with rest, elevation, and ice, but some extreme sprains may cause torn ligaments, which require medical assistance and possibly surgery.
Broken Bones During the Summer
During Summer activities like sports, bike riding, running, or climbing, it’s a common occurrence to fall or hit something. For the most part, you just end up with a few bumps and bruises, but a hard fall can cause a broken or fractured bone. In some cases, you’ll be able to hear the bone break, but these injuries are mostly characterized by swelling, a great deal of pain, and a decrease in the range of motion. Surgery is sometimes required to repair the bone with screws or pins. Most broken or fractured bones, however, can be treated with a brace or cast to limit the range of motion while the bone heals to prevent re-injury. If you suffer a broken bone, you may fear that your summer is ruined. While you might not be able to use the body part as effectively, there are waterproof casts available so you can still enjoy a dip in the pool while your body recovers.
Orthopedic Surgeon in Illinois
The Summer can be filled with fun, but it can be filled with injuries as well. If you find yourself suffering from a summertime injury, the office of Dr. Roger Chams can help you make a speedy recovery and make the most of the nice weather. Specializing in joints such as the shoulder and knee, we can analyze your case and recommend the best course of action. Don’t spend your summer with a nagging injury, contact us today to see how we can help you.
