3 Summer Habits That Could Be Making Your Pain Worse (And What to Do Instead)

Summer brings longer days, warmer weather, and more time outdoors—but it can also bring unexpected pain flare-ups. If your back is aching more than usual or your joints are feeling stiff after a sunny weekend, some of your seasonal habits might be to blame.

Here are 3 common summer habits that could be making your pain worse—and how physical therapy can help you stay active, comfortable, and pain-free all season long.

☀️ 1. Overdoing It on the Weekends

Summer weekends are packed with fun: gardening, hiking, biking, beach trips, and backyard games. But jumping into high-activity days without proper warm-ups or pacing can lead to muscle fatigue, joint pain, or even injury.

What to do instead: Ease into activities, include dynamic stretches before you begin, and take regular breaks to hydrate and rest. Physical therapy can help you build strength, improve flexibility, and reduce your risk of overuse injuries.

☀️ 2. Wearing the Wrong Footwear

Flip-flops, sandals, and unsupportive shoes may feel breezy—but they can wreak havoc on your feet, knees, hips, and lower back. Poor arch support often leads to pain, especially if you’re walking more in the summer.

What to do instead: Choose shoes with proper support, especially if you're walking long distances. If you’re already dealing with plantar fasciitis or foot pain, non-invasive treatments like SoftWave Therapy can accelerate healing and restore function.

☀️ 3. Ignoring Minor Pain Signals

It’s tempting to “push through” when the sun is shining, but ignoring those little aches and twinges can lead to bigger problems down the road. Pain is your body’s way of saying something needs attention.

What to do instead: Listen to your body. If you're noticing consistent pain or reduced mobility, it’s time to get support. Physical therapy provides non-invasive pain management options to address the root cause and prevent long-term damage.

🏖️ You Deserve a Pain-Free Summer

Whether you’re chasing your kids at the park, exploring Ohio trails, or simply enjoying an evening walk, pain shouldn’t hold you back.

At Aspire Wellness, we offer customized physical therapy plans and non-invasive pain relief options like SoftWave Therapy—designed to help you heal, move, and enjoy your life fully.

📞 Ready to feel better this summer? Call us today at (440) 632-5814 option 7 to book your first physical therapy session. Let’s get you back to doing what you love—pain-free.