Summer is a time to enjoy the sunshine, outdoor activities, and long-awaited vacations, but it’s also a season when back injuries can be much more common. Whether you’re awkwardly lifting heavy luggage, gardening, or attempting to keep up with the kids, back pain may sneak up on you fast and possibly linger for weeks or months, ultimately disrupting your summer plans.
Here at Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants, we often see a noticeable increase in patients with back injuries during the warmer months. Fortunately, with the right level of awareness and proactive planning, many of these back injuries are very much preventable.
In this post, we’ll cover the most common causes of summer back injuries, tips to prevent them, and when to seek expert care.
Yard Work & Gardening
What Happens:
You’re mowing the lawn, pulling weeds, or planting flowers. While it may seem like a harmless activity, repetitive bending, twisting, and lifting may place excess stress on your spine. If you happen to have poor body mechanics while gardening, and if this is combined with extended hours in the sun, you may quickly find yourself experiencing lower back strain or even a herniated disc with enough repetition.
How to Prevent It:
- Warm up with light stretching before you begin.
- Use proper posture: bend at the knees, not at the waist.
- Take frequent breaks to hydrate and stretch.
- Use ergonomic tools when possible.
If you begin to feel any form of a deep ache or shooting pain down your leg post yard work, contact us at Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants for an evaluation. Ignoring these types of symptoms may lead to long-term issues which could be easily prevented with the right level of care.
Traveling (Long Drives or Flights)
What Happens:
Summer is often associated with long road trips and long flights. Any time you sit for an extended period of time without lumbar support, you can easily compress your spinal discs and irritate nerves. This is especially true for those with preexisting back and spine conditions.
How to Prevent It:
- Bring a lumbar pillow or roll up a towel to support your lower back.
- Take standing breaks every 1-2 hours during long drives or flights.
- Stretch your hamstrings and back before and after travel.
If you’re experiencing any type of persistent back discomfort during or after travel, Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants offers both non-surgical and surgical solutions to restore spinal health and overall mobility.
Moving Heavy Items (Coolers, Luggage, Patio Furniture)
What Happens:
Whether it’s loading up the car with camping gear or rearranging the summer patio furniture, any improper lifting technique places you at risk for a back injury. These types of strenuous lifting scenarios could result in muscle strain or even acute disc injuries.
How to Prevent It:
- Lift with your legs, not your back.
- Avoid twisting while lifting or carrying.
- Ask for help with heavy or awkward objects.
- Wear supportive shoes with good traction.
If you begin to feel a sudden sharp pain or “pop” in your back, seek immediate medical attention. Our team of medical experts at Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants can perform advanced imaging and recommend a treatment path tailored to your injury to have you back on your feet and feeling well once again.
Sports & Recreational Activities
What Happens:
Water skiing, golf, paddleboarding, tennis, and even trampoline jumping may put your spine at risk of injury, especially if you’re not accustomed to the movement of those activities. Any form of sudden or repetitive motions may stress muscles, ligaments, and discs.
How to Prevent It:
- Condition your core before jumping into activity.
- Warm up thoroughly and stretch afterwards.
- Use proper form, and don’t push beyond your current fitness level.
- Be cautious when trying new or high-impact sports.
If your back pain is recurring every time you’re active, Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants is happy to help diagnose the root cause. Our team of experts will guide you toward a pain-free return to your favorite summer sport.
Dehydration & Muscle Fatigue
What Happens:
Hot weather exponentially increases your risk of dehydration. This may affect muscle function, leading to cramps, fatigue, and overall poor spinal support. As time goes on, this may lead to a greater risk of back strain and injury.
How to Prevent It:
- Drink adequate amounts of water—especially when active.
- Avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol when spending time outdoors.
- Replenish electrolytes if you’re sweating heavily.
If your muscles begin to tighten up and feel sore after even moderate activity, it could possibly be more than just dehydration. Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants offers in-house physical therapy services to help restore your mobility and reduce excess inflammation from strains and muscle soreness.
When to Seek Help for a Summer Back Injury
Some mild to moderate levels of soreness after activity is normal, but if you’re experiencing:
- Persistent back pain that lasts more than a week
- Numbness or tingling in your legs or feet
- Pain that worsens with movement or doesn’t improve with rest
- Limited range of motion or stiffness
- A sharp, radiating pain down your leg (sciatica symptoms)
…it’s time to contact us to see what is actually going on.
Why Choose Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants?
Our amazing team of specialists helps restore your health with both conservative and advanced treatments for spinal conditions and injuries. If you’re dealing with mild to moderate muscle strain, or even a more serious issue such as a herniated disc, our approach ensures you receive the care you need without any delay.
We combine:
- State-of-the-art diagnostics
- Minimally invasive surgical techniques
- Comprehensive pain management
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation programs
…and we customize every treatment plan to your unique condition, lifestyle, and goals.
Keep Your Back Safe This Summer
Back pain shouldn’t be holding you back this summer. Don’t let back pain be a part of your summer plans. Through staying hydrated, utilizing proper body mechanics, and actually listening to your body, you can proactively protect your spine all summer long. And if something doesn’t feel quite right? Reach out to us at Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants. Whether you just need a quick evaluation, a second opinion, or a comprehensive long-term treatment plan, we’re here to help you enjoy summer without having to endure back pain. Stay active, stay safe, and take care of your spine.
DISCLAIMER: No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.