The Hughston Clinic, P.C. - Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine in Georgia and Alabama

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As the hot spring days are upon us don't forget to use the proper sunscreen when you are going to be outside for long periods of time. Also remember to apply the sunscreen before you get out in the sun so it has time to absorb into the skin.
Be careful of energy drinks while participating in outdoor activities. Some of these drinks can lead to dehydration and can cause irregular heart rhythms, especially in children.
Make sure you drink the proper amount of fluids while you are outside. Don't wait until you are thirsty, thirst is a key sign of dehydration.

The morning after activity can lead to general body soreness. Warm showers and stretching can help alleviate some of the pain from muscle soreness.
Remember that a change in playing surface can lead to lower body pain. Transitioning from a basketball court to the soccer field can cause pain throughout the muscles and joints of the lower body. Be sure to make this change slowly and use ice to help reduce the inflammation in the joints and muscles.
A good way to ice your elbows and knees is to fill a paper cup about two thirds full and freeze it. Later you can tear off some of the paper and rub the ice over any area you need too. Use the ice block until it melts away, or 10 minutes, whichever is faster.
Make sure all sports equipment is fitted properly and free of tears or rips in the material.
Recognize the early signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, fatigue, dizziness, and feeling light headed. If somebody experiences these problems move them into a shaded area and seek necessary medical attention.
Make sure all children receive a physical from their physician every year to check developmental status and to look for any medical problems.
To reduce the risk of injury, be sure to check yards and sports fields for dangers like rocks and holes that somebody might fall over or into while playing outside.

For more health tips and information, sign up for the Hughston Health Alert

Hughston Clinic -- looking to meet the growing demand in treating bad joints, hands and feet -- said Thursday it has invested $4 million into a new outpatient surgical center off Veterans Parkway in north Columbus. Aptly named Hughston Surgical Center, the 9,000-square-foot facility...Read more

Physician Spotlight

Champ L. Baker, III, M.D.

Champ L. Baker, M.D. Champ Baker III earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta before going on to complete his internship and orthopaedic surgery residency at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center... Read More