16 Sep Post-Summer Recovery: Caring for Overused Joints After a Busy Season
The summer season often means more activity like pickup basketball games, long-distance
runs, beach volleyball, or outdoor fitness classes. While these activities are great for staying
healthy and social, they can also take a toll on your joints. Overuse injuries in the knee, hip,
shoulder, and elbow are especially common after a busy season of movement. As the summer
season begins to wind down, if you’re dealing with soreness or reduced mobility, it may be time
to consult an orthopedic doctor in Midtown or one of our other convenient locations.
At New York Sports Medicine Institute, with offices in New York City, White Plains, and
Paramus, NJ, our orthopedic surgeons specialize in diagnosing and treating joint conditions for
athletes and active individuals of all ages.
Why Joints Are More Vulnerable After Summer
Increased physical activity without proper rest and recovery can strain the musculoskeletal
system. Sports like tennis, swimming, running, and cycling often lead to repetitive stress on the
joints, causing inflammation, tendinitis, and even early cartilage wear.
● Knees: Prone to runner’s knee, ligament strain, and meniscus irritation.
● Hips: May develop overuse injuries from cycling or long-distance running.
● Shoulders: Commonly impacted by swimming or throwing sports, leading to rotator cuff
inflammation.
● Elbows: Susceptible to “tennis elbow” or “golfer’s elbow” from racquet sports and
repetitive arm movements.
Recognizing these issues early helps prevent long-term damage and ensures you can get back
to your favorite activities safely.
Signs You May Need Orthopedic Care
Not all aches and pains are cause for alarm, but lingering discomfort may signal a more serious
issue. Consider scheduling an appointment if you experience:
● Pain lasting more than a few days
● Swelling or stiffness around a joint
● Difficulty with range of motion
● Clicking, locking, or instability in the joint
● Pain interfering with sleep or daily activities
If left untreated, small injuries may progress into larger problems requiring more extensive
treatment.
How an Orthopedic Doctor in Midtown Treats Overuse Injuries
At New York Sports Medicine Institute, our approach to treatment is personalized and
comprehensive. We focus on both non-surgical and surgical options depending on the severity
of the condition.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Overuse Injuries
● Most overuse injuries can be managed without surgery, especially when diagnosed
early. Common non-surgical treatments include:
● Activity modification: Reducing or adjusting physical activity to allow tissues time to heal.
● Therapeutic Exercises: Targeted exercises to restore flexibility, strengthen supporting
muscles, and improve joint stability.
● Anti-inflammatory medications: To reduce swelling and manage pain.
● Corticosteroid or biologic injections: When conservative methods are not enough,
injections can help decrease inflammation and promote healing.
● Bracing or supports: To relieve stress on the injured joint during recovery.
These therapies aim to restore mobility, reduce discomfort, and prevent long-term joint damage.
Surgical Treatments for Overuse Injuries
If non-surgical options do not provide relief or if the injury is severe, surgery may be necessary.
Our orthopedic surgeons specialize in minimally invasive and advanced surgical techniques,
including:
● Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure used to repair damaged cartilage,
ligaments, or tendons.
● Tendon and ligament repair: Reconstructing or repairing torn or overstressed soft
tissues.
● Cartilage restoration procedures: Techniques to address cartilage damage that may
result from chronic overuse.
● Joint realignment or reconstruction: In rare cases, when overuse has led to significant
structural damage.
Surgical treatment is always considered the last resort, but for some patients, it offers the best
chance at full recovery and return to activity.
Preventing Future Joint Overuse
Recovery is only part of the process. Preventing re-injury is equally important. Our orthopedic
specialists often recommend:
● Cross-training to avoid repetitive stress
● Stretching and mobility exercises before and after activity
● Proper footwear for running and high-impact sports
● Gradual increases in workout intensity
● Listening to your body and resting when needed
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
If joint pain is holding you back after a busy summer, don’t wait for it to get worse. The expert
orthopedic surgeons at New York Sports Medicine Institute are here to help patients in New York
City, White Plains, and Paramus, NJ regain strength, mobility, and confidence.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your path to recovery.