Summer in Burlington invites everyone to move more. From beach volleyball at the lake to biking through Aldershot’s trails, physical activity is at its peak. But as temperatures rise, so does the risk of heat-related injuries and strain from overexertion. At Sheddon Physiotherapy and Sports Clinic Burlington/Aldershot, we want our community to stay active and safe all summer long.
Hot weather introduces a unique set of physical stressors. Muscle fatigue sets in quicker, joints may become stiffer without proper hydration, and reaction times decrease. These factors can all lead to an increase in strains, sprains, and overuse injuries during the warmer months.
At our clinic, we frequently see patients with summer-specific complaints such as heat-related muscle cramps, shoulder strains from water sports, or low back pain from sudden bursts of intense activity like impromptu soccer games or paddleboarding. What these scenarios have in common is that they often involve high exertion without adequate warm-up, recovery, or environmental preparation.
Staying safe in the summer heat:
- Schedule activity early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid peak heat
- Wear breathable, moisture-wicking clothing to stay cool and reduce skin irritation
It’s important to ease into higher levels of activity, especially if you’ve been sedentary during the winter or spring months. Start with short sessions and gradually increase the intensity and duration. A physiotherapist can help you build a plan that matches your fitness level and goals while minimizing injury risk.
We also recommend staying well-hydrated. Dehydration doesn’t just affect endurance — it compromises muscle function, coordination, and the body’s ability to regulate temperature. Our therapists can provide advice on hydration strategies and recovery practices based on your activity level and lifestyle.
Physiotherapy also plays a key role in maintaining mobility and function during the summer. Whether you’re hiking, swimming, golfing, or gardening, we can assess your posture, strength, and movement patterns to detect areas of tightness or imbalance. Addressing these proactively can help prevent setbacks and enhance performance.
For those already experiencing pain or fatigue, our clinic offers a range of solutions including manual therapy, corrective exercise, and dry needling. These therapies not only reduce discomfort but also accelerate recovery so you can return to the activities you love without delay.
We also work with parents to ensure their children stay safe during summer sports camps or outdoor play. Growing bodies are especially vulnerable to overuse injuries, and early intervention can prevent chronic issues. Our pediatric assessments look at alignment, flexibility, and muscle strength to support healthy movement patterns.
Don’t forget about your recovery routines. Stretching, foam rolling, and rest days are just as important as the activity itself. Neglecting recovery is one of the most common causes of injury among summer athletes. At Sheddon Physiotherapy, we can teach you how to build an effective recovery routine tailored to your sport or activity.
Ultimately, summer is a time for exploration and enjoyment. Whether you’re playing beach volleyball, cycling the lakeshore, or trying a new fitness class in the park, staying injury-free allows you to make the most of it. If an ache or strain does arise, don’t wait. Early treatment means faster healing and fewer interruptions to your summer plans.
Take control of your summer health. Whether you’re hitting the trails or the beach, trust Sheddon Physiotherapy and Sports Clinic in Burlington/Aldershot to support your active lifestyle with expert care.
Book your summer assessment today and feel the difference expert physiotherapy can make or book a Free 15-minute Discovery Call.
