Summer in Minnesota can be a wonderful time to be outdoors and enjoy some of the trails and waterways that the state has to offer, but that’s easier said than done if you suffer from a chronic pain condition. Sometimes chronic pain can be unpredictable, but you can work to limit flareups and bad days if you are smart about how you approach your condition during the summer. In today’s blog, we take a closer look at some tips for helping to keep your chronic pain condition at bay during the summer months.

Preventing Chronic Pain In The Summer

Here’s a list of things you should keep in mind this summer to help limit chronic pain’s hold over you.

1. Make Water Your Friend – As we explained in a previous blog, you can help to keep chronic pain at bay by making water your friend this summer. Taking your exercise routine to the pool or lake can help keep you from overheating, and water’s natural resistance can make for a great place to do some exercise routines. Drinking plenty of water will also help you stay hydrated and avoid muscle cramping and other heat-related health issues.

2. Mind Your Diet – Summer may provide more opportunities to eat on the go or at a backyard barbecue, but it’s important not to let your diet contribute to your chronic pain condition. Poor dietary choices can increase inflammation in your body, which can worsen chronic pain symptoms. Instead of eating a lot of red meat or unhealthy options at a barbecue this summer, use the improved weather to help make it easier to get a range of healthy vitamins and nutrients. Pick your own fruits and veggies at a local farm, or head to the farmer’s market and pick up some nutrious options that will help to calm inflammation.

3. Carve Out Time For Exercise/PT – We know that summer can get busy, but that doesn’t mean you should skip regular exercise or your daily physical therapy routine. You need to make time for these exercises if you truly want to gain some control over your chronic pain condition. Even though life can get a little more hectic during the summer, make sure you make time to do your therapy exercises.

4. Healthy Sleep Patterns – We tend to be out a little later when the nights get longer, and that can throw off our bedtime routine. It’s fine to stay out late once in a while, but strive to develop a healthy sleeping routine this summer. Go to bed and wake up around the same time every day, and eliminate distractions like cell phones and televisions from your room to help create an ideal sleep environment.

5. Dress The Part – Finally, keep an eye on the weather report and dress appropriately. Breathable clothes and sunhats can help prevent overheating on hot days, and keeping an extra jacket in the car can keep you warm if it gets cooler sooner than you expected. Making sure your body is at a comfortable temperature can help keep chronic pain flareups at bay.

If you do these five things, we’re confident that you’ll be able to take control of your chronic pain condition this summer. For more information or for help with any aspect of your pain issue, reach out to Dr. Cohn’s office today.