Self-Care for Summer: How to Avoid Common Pain and Injuries

Summer is the season of sunshine, road trips, yard work, and spontaneous adventures. But with all that activity comes a spike in avoidable injuries—especially back pain, neck strain, and sore muscles. Whether you’re chasing kids around the pool or pulling weeds in the backyard, a little self-care goes a long way.

At Cherry Health Center in Springfield, MO, we help patients enjoy the season pain-free with proactive, holistic care. Here are simple ways to protect your body, prevent injury, and make the most of your summer.

1. Warm Up Before You Jump In

Even if you’re not heading to the gym, your body still needs prep time. Gardening, hiking, or a backyard volleyball game all put stress on your muscles and joints.

Pro Tip: Take 5 minutes to do gentle stretching or light movement before any physical activity. This helps increase blood flow and prevent muscle strain.

2. Hydration Is Your Summer Superpower

Dehydration doesn’t just zap your energy—it can also lead to muscle cramps and joint stiffness, especially in the heat.

Pro Tip: Aim for half your body weight in ounces of water daily. Add electrolytes on especially hot or active days.

3. Be Smart About Yard Work and Outdoor Chores

Mowing the lawn or pulling weeds might not feel like a workout, but your back and shoulders would say otherwise.

Pro Tip: Avoid twisting motions, bend at the knees—not the waist—and take breaks to stretch. If your back is already stiff or sore, a chiropractic adjustment can make a huge difference.

4. Don’t Ignore Minor Pain

That little twinge in your lower back? It’s your body trying to tell you something. Waiting until pain becomes unbearable can lead to longer recovery times.

Pro Tip: Early treatment with chiropractic care, physical therapy, or sports massage therapy can help resolve small issues before they become bigger ones.

5. Watch Out for Tech Neck and Summer Slouching

Summer often means more time scrolling poolside or lounging with a good book. But poor posture—especially with phones or tablets—can lead to neck and shoulder pain.

Pro Tip: Be mindful of your posture, and do some neck stretches daily. If pain persists, Cherry Health Center offers neck pain treatment that targets the root cause.

6. Know When to Call the Pros

Pain that lingers, worsens, or interferes with your normal routine deserves attention. Whether it's from a pulled muscle or a tweak in your back, we’re here to help you heal naturally and safely.

Our services include:

• Chiropractic adjustments

• Physical therapy

• Manual therapy

• Sports massage therapy

• Spinal decompression All personalized for your body and your lifestyle.

✅ Call to Action:

Don’t let pain steal your summer joy. Book an appointment with Cherry Health Center in Springfield today and keep your body feeling its best! Schedule Online or call (417) 413-5900.