Swimming, kayaking, bocce ball—whatever your favorite outdoor activity is, it’s no wonder we feel the call to do it more during the summer. And why not? The weather is warm and the days are longer, but with more time outdoors comes a higher likelihood of injury.
And maybe it seems like something small at first—a slip on the deck by the pool, tweaking your elbow while rowing a canoe or a little knee soreness because you let your bike ride stretch a little bit longer than you planned.
While it may seem like no big deal right now, you may not be able to simply walk it off, and unfortunately, that might mean long-term problems or pain if you don't address it right away.
So, at what point should you see someone about your symptoms if you do suffer a summer injury?
It can be tough to know when to seek help, but these are key signs that something more serious might be going on:
- Being unable to bear weight on your joint or lift your limb. This could be a sign of a fracture, cartilage injury, bruised bone or ligament tear.
- Bruising and swelling that lasts longer than a week, even after using the RICE method (rest, ice, compression and elevation) and over-the-counter pain relief medications. This could be a sign of a sprain or fracture.
- Having trouble bending or straightening your joints. This symptom could indicate one of several conditions, including tears, dislocation, osteoarthritis or ligament injuries.
- Hearing odd sounds like clicking, cracking or popping. It could be a sign of a torn ligament or cartilage deterioration.
- Experiencing unusual sensations like numbness, tingling, burning or “pins and needles” could be a sign of a pinched or damaged nerve.
Remember, ignoring an injury can have significant consequences. What starts as a small tear in a ligament, for example, can worsen over time, potentially leading to a loss of mobility and stability, which can make everyday activities far more difficult than they need to be.
Plus, the reduced movement while you heal could cause muscle mass loss, making rehabilitation even more challenging.
So, don't let a minor injury become a serious problem that will last for many seasons to come. By seeking help early on, when your symptoms are most treatable, you can get back to the summer adventures you love.
Joint Pain Assessment
If you’re still experiencing pain after rest, ice and even time off from your favorite summer activity, it may be time to visit your doctor to see if you’re suffering from something more serious. Take our joint pain assessment now to find out more.
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