Multi generation black family at 4th July barbecue, vertical

As someone with chronic pain, you have probably come to learn your physical limitations. When you put them to the test, your symptoms may flare up and leave you feeling miserable for days. This isn’t the experience you want on the 4th of July! To make sure pain doesn’t put a damper on the holiday or the rest of your summer, follow these tips for celebrating sensibly and safely.

Avoid Trigger Foods

Hamburgers, hot dogs, and ice cream are commonly served at summer picnics. Unfortunately, these types of food can exacerbate chronic pain symptoms. Ask whoever is preparing the food to try these healthier, more natural versions of traditional favorites:

  • Grass-fed beef burgers with lower saturated fat and more omega-3s instead of factory-farmed meat
  • Uncured hot dogs in place of preservative-filled cured hot dogs
  • Fruit smoothies or ice cream made from coconut milk instead of dairy ice cream that could cause inflammation

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can cause your aches and pains to feel worse. Fatigue, dizziness, and heatstroke are other common problems associated with dehydration. To avoid these problems, drink plenty of water, especially during increased activity.

Also, be aware that alcohol can interact with some medications and make your pain worse. If your doctor gives you the okay to drink, have two glasses of water between each alcoholic beverage to dilute the effects and keep you hydrated.

Stretch Before Getting Physically Active

If you usually live a sedentary lifestyle because of your chronic pain, celebrating with family could be a pleasant change of pace. Just don’t overdo it. If you want to play a round of catch or ring toss, stretch your muscles to warm up first. This helps you avoid injury when doing something your body isn’t used to.

Ease Yourself into It

Pay attention to the muscles you’re using and take the time to ensure proper posture as you engage in activities like catch or ring toss. These games can strain your middle back and shoulders, but the impact is less pronounced if you keep your torso straight and engage your core muscles.

Mix in Slow-Paced Activities

Independence Day is filled with activities from morning until night. To ensure you enjoy everything from the early day parade to the fireworks after sunset, plug in slow-paced activities between the faster-paced ones. Go bike riding, and then lounge by the pool. Play catch, and then roast marshmallows over the fire. Express your need for this change of pace with your family. They will surely do everything possible to accommodate your needs.

Make Sensible Choices

It’s easy to get carried away when enjoying time with family members you rarely see, but it’s important to take a break when you feel you must. For instance, if you are recovering from back surgery, it wouldn’t be wise to play tackle football. Sitting on the sidelines might not be your idea of fun, but imagine injuring yourself and being laid up for weeks. Stay as active as you feel comfortable, but choose your activities wisely.

Treat Chronic Pain at Spine Correction Center

Taking good care of yourself is the best way to make sure a special day like the 4th of July goes off without a hitch. Then, anytime you need a little extra care, please visit Spine Correction Center in Fort Collins. We offer free consultations to new clients, so you can talk with our experts and decide if what we offer is right for you before making a commitment.

To learn more about our services and the conditions we treat, please contact us online or call our office at (970) 658-5115 today.