Summer is finally here which means it’s time to make the most of the warmer temps and longer days! For those living with chronic joint pain, enjoying the season to its fullest may seem out of reach. But, it doesn’t have to be this way! In this article, our founder Dr. Robert Dean shares his go-to Healthy Summer Guide to help his patients with knee, hip, or shoulder pain stay active while keeping their pain in check.
“Getting outside and staying active during summertime is not only important for our overall fitness goals, but also for our mental health,” says Dr. Dean. “I created my simple Healthy Summer Guide so that my patients with chronic joint pain can get the most out of the season while developing habits to help them manage their pain. After all, life is short and joint pain shouldn’t prevent anyone from getting the most out of it!”
Dr. Dean’s Healthy Summer Guide
- Soak Up the Sunlight. Exposure to natural light is a natural mood-enhancer and a great way to help regulate your body’s internal clock, which is also known as your circadian rhythm. Little things like sipping your morning coffee outside, taking your dog for a walk, or meeting friends for a meal outdoors are great ways to get your daily dose of sunlight.
- “Summerize” Your Diet. Eating a balanced diet that consists of lean proteins, healthy fats, fruits & veggies, and whole grains is essential to joint pain management. When summer rolls around, you should take advantage of some of my favorite seasonal foods that you can add to your meal plan including watermelon, apples, avocados, radishes, peppers, and berries. Sustainable fish is also a great choice, and which catch is in season will vary by your location.
- Low-Impact Outdoor Exercise. When managing joint pain, it’s important to stay active with minimal impact on the affected area. This way, you can burn calories and get in a little extra time outdoors while protecting your joints. Some of my favorite ways to get in some low-impact movement include swimming, gentle yoga, or simply taking a brisk walk. Whatever you choose, aim for 30 minutes a day to stay on track.
- Have Fun. I always say that a healthy lifestyle is about balance, which means you have to carve out time for fun. Summertime is perfect for visiting the beach, inviting friends over for dinner outside, or taking the kids or grandkids to your favorite local spots. Spending time outdoors doing things you love will help reduce stress and remind you that life goes on even when you’re living with joint pain.
With these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the summer while taking care of your joint pain! And remember to always consult with your doctor or health care provider before making any modifications to your lifestyle.
If you are living with chronic knee, hip or shoulder pain that’s not improving and want to avoid the complications of total joint replacement surgery, you can complete the form below to request your free consultation with Dr. Dean to see if you are a candidate for AROmotion which has helped more than 2,000 patients stop their joint pain fast without surgery.