Summer changes our routines and also the way we demand things from our bodies. We walk more, spend time barefoot, swim, play padel, or practice sports that we hardly do during the rest of the year.
Moving around is beneficial, but increasing activity abruptly and without preparation can lead to overexertion. Walking for hours on the sand or wearing flip-flops continuously alters the biomechanics of the foot and can cause discomfort in the ankles, knees, and spine.
Something similar happens with swimming and water sports. Suddenly returning to an activity we haven't practiced for months can cause inflammation, muscle pain, and joint discomfort. It's not about stopping exercise altogether, but about adapting the effort to our physical condition and gradually increasing the intensity.
Furthermore, as we age, our bodies need more time to recover. Both overexertion and inactivity can ultimately affect muscles and joints.
In this article, Dr. Elgeadi explains some of the most common summer ailments, why they often appear upon returning from vacation, and how to enjoy rest and exercise without demanding more from your body than it is prepared to handle.
Listening to your body, respecting recovery times, and not normalizing persistent pain are key to preventing a temporary overload from becoming a bigger problem.
