LEXINGTON, Ky., Aug. 10, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Lexington Chiropractor Dr. Kevin Lynch, DC announced new tips for helping individuals stay fit and healthy during the summer months and reduce the risk for injury and back pain. Yard work and summer sports, like tennis and golf, are common triggers for back pain. Dr. Lynch shared tips for safely warming up prior to playing sports strengthening the core, which he says will help prevent back pain. Dr. Lynch is also reminding patients to stay hydrated while exercising or performing yard work.
Summer sports, outdoor activities, and yard work are three reasons why back pain complaints increase during the summer months. Lynch Chiropractic Clinic is working to reduce the risk for back pain and summer injuries through proactive care and injury prevention.
"Thanks to the beautiful weather, summer is the perfect time to be active outside," said Dr. Lynch. "Unfortunately, this increase in outdoor activity also correlates with an increased risk for health problems, including back pain due to overuse injuries. Our goal is to help patients avoid these injuries by bringing awareness to the type of activities and movement patterns that cause pain in the first place."
Playing summer sports like golf and tennis is one of the most common triggers for back pain, along with running and performing yard work.
"Lower back pain is often associated with a weak core," warned Dr. Lynch. "Strengthening the core is an effective way to reduce the risk for back pain. Depending on a patient's fitness level, simply performing daily core exercises like plank and abdominal crunches can make a big difference."
If back pain persists, Dr. Lynch recommends individuals schedule an appointment with a chiropractor for a diagnostic exam. Even a minor spinal misalignment can affect basic movements, like swinging a golf club or tennis racket.
Shin splints are also a common summer sports injury complaint. While shin splints are most closely associated with running, a long hike or even a stroll through the neighborhood can trigger shin splints. To reduce the risk for shin splints, Dr. Lynch recommends specific stretching exercise that will help to warm up the calf muscles and Achilles.
"To stretch before running or walking, I recommend that individuals stand in front of a wall with one leg forward and the knee slightly bent," said Dr. Lynch. "Push against the wall for 30 seconds and then switch to the other leg and repeat."
Rotator cuff injuries also increase during the summer months. Rotator cuff injuries are one of the most common tennis-related sports injuries. Dr. Lynch recommends shoulder-strengthening exercises to improve muscle stamina and fitness. A chiropractic evaluation is also beneficial for determining if an undiagnosed spinal misalignment may be affecting movement and exacerbating pain.
Lynch Chiropractic Center offers chiropractic adjustments, sports injury treatment, exercise rehabilitation, and more in Lexington.