Here comes the sun—nature’s invitation to get outdoors for fun and fitness. But as temperatures rise, so do the chances of an orthopedic injury.
At SpecOrtho in Fort Mill, SC, Dr. Christopher Sutton and Dr. Glen Feltham, both experienced board-certified orthopedic surgeons, regularly treat patients who suffer from common summertime orthopedic injuries. Understanding the risks and taking preventive measures can help you enjoy the season safely.
Common Summertime Orthopedic Injuries
Taking it one body part at a time, here are the injuries these specialists often see during the summer—and the activities that tend to cause them.
Shoulder Injuries
Rotator cuff tendinitis and tears account for the majority of shoulder injuries. Dr. Christopher Sutton, a specialist in hand and upper extremity surgery, often treats patients suffering from these issues due to repetitive overhead motions in sports like tennis, volleyball, swimming, and baseball.
Falling on an outstretched arm or lifting something too heavy can also result in a rotator cuff tear. Fortunately, Dr. Sutton utilizes advanced computer-guided shoulder replacement technology to help restore mobility and function.
Elbow Injuries
Epicondylitis, commonly known as tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow, occurs when forearm muscles and tendons become overloaded due to repetitive arm movements. This condition frequently affects athletes who play baseball, softball, or pickleball.
Knee Injuries
Your knee—the largest joint in your body—is susceptible to various injuries, from overuse syndromes like patellofemoral pain syndrome (runner’s knee) to sudden meniscus tears and ACL injuries caused by quick pivots in sports like basketball and soccer.
As a dually board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine expert, Dr. Glen Feltham specializes in arthroscopic knee surgery to help patients recover quickly and safely from these injuries.
Ankle Injuries
Trail hiking, running on the beach, or even stepping off the curb the wrong way can damage the ligaments that stabilize your ankle, resulting in a painful sprain.
Injury Prevention Tips
Although some summer activities carry risk, staying active is crucial for overall health. Dr. Feltham and Dr. Sutton recommend the following strategies to reduce your chances of injury:
- Pace Yourself – Gradually increase activity by 10-15% per week if you’re returning to exercise.
- Stretch Before and After Activity – A 10- to 15-minute stretch routine helps warm up muscles and maintain joint flexibility. Cooling down with ice packs can reduce inflammation.
- Stay Hydrated – The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons recommends drinking 8 ounces of water every 20 minutes during activity.
- Mix Up Your Training – Cross-training and strength exercises can prevent overuse injuries by engaging different muscle groups.
What to Do If You Get Injured
If you suffer an injury, Dr. Sutton and Dr. Feltham recommend following the RICE protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation). If symptoms persist beyond a week or include severe pain, inability to bear weight, or limited joint movement, seek medical attention.
At SpecOrtho, Dr. Sutton and Dr. Feltham provide personalized orthopedic care, helping you heal efficiently and get back to the activities you love. Don’t let an injury take the fun out of summer—stay proactive, stay safe, and keep moving!