During the hot, summer weather, many people will experience joint stiffness and muscle cramping. People think that because it’s warmer out they will feel more loose but with the heat, you are more likely to be dehydrated.
Our top rated chiropractor in Freehold, NJ discusses What You Should Do If You Feel Stiff and Cramping during summer time to get relief in our weekly health tip video:
In general, people do not drink enough water and consume coffee and other caffeinated beverages that dehydrate your body. If you are experiencing stiffness, cramps and muscle spasms increase your water, decrease coffee, increase electrolytes, minerals and vitamins.
Make sure you are drinking a sufficient amount of water. You should drink half your body weight in ounces of water. If you drink coffee, you should account for that by drinking 4 to 8 glasses of water more for each 8 to 10 ounce cup of coffee you drink. If you are exercising, you will sweat more with the heat and you lose water through your skin, so again drink more to make up for the perspiration.
Low levels of potassium, magnesium, calcium and sodium contribute to dehydration and cramping. People don’t realize the importance of salt to improve hydration. We have been told for decades to avoid salt but it is necessary for many physiological processes in the body.
Many of the electrolyte drinks out there are filled with sugar and artificial ingredients. I have been using a more natural electrolyte mix for 15 years. If you would like more info and get it for yourself, click: Amped Hydrate
I always recommend stretching to help reduce joint stiffness and muscle tightness. You can learn and do our techniques by watching videos, click: Full Body Spinal Hygiene Stretches
And of course most important is to make sure you are getting adjusted to get pressure of the nerves and improve biomechanical function to remove strain from the muscles, tendons and ligaments.
It is important to note, if you continue to experience cramping problems even while improving lifestyle factors above, you could have a medical condition. Please contact a health professional if the symptoms do not improve.