As the temperatures rise in summer, so does the excitement for outdoor sports and activities. Be mindful that increased physical activity also increases your risk of injury. Here are some tips to help athletes prevent shoulder injuries and stay in the game under the Arizona sun.
Embrace the Heat, Protect Your Shoulders
- Warm-Up and Stretching: Prioritize warming up your muscles and stretching your shoulders and upper body before engaging in any physical activity. This helps improve flexibility and blood flow to the muscles, and reduces the risk of strains and tears during exercise.
- Proper Technique: Athletes should focus on maintaining good form, using the appropriate equipment, and avoiding overexertion to minimize strain on the shoulders.
- Strength and Conditioning: Incorporate strength training exercises into your workout routine to help build muscular strength and endurance. Target the muscles of the rotator cuff, as well as the deltoids and upper back. This will provide better support and stability for the shoulder joint, help prevent imbalances, and reduce the risk of injury.
- Stay Hydrated: Combat the summer heat by staying well-hydrated, which helps maintain muscle elasticity and joint lubrication.
- Rest and Recovery: Give yourself adequate time to rest and recover between workouts or games. Overtraining can lead to fatigue and increased risk of injury, so be sure to schedule rest days into your routine and prioritize recovery strategies such as ice therapy and massage.
Shoulder injuries don't have to be a summer tradition. If you are experiencing shoulder pain or discomfort, book an appointment with us for accurate diagnosis and advanced treatment options. With the right approach, you can look forward to a season of triumphs, not timeouts. Stay safe and make this summer your best one yet!
AUTHOR: Dr. Anup Shah is a board-certified, fellowship-trained Sports Medicine Orthopedic surgeon specializing in Knee and Shoulder Surgery in Phoenix, Arizona at Banner Health. Dr. Shah uses a patient-centric and an evidence-based approach to help his patients achieve their desired goals.
