From Dock to Discomfort: How Cottage Fun Can Lead to Summer Aches

Your Happy Place Shouldn't Hurt

Picture this: You're up at the cottage, the kids are laughing by the lake, dinner's sizzling on the BBQ, and the sun is casting that perfect golden glow over the water. You're relaxed, recharged... until your back starts to twinge, your shoulder feels stiff, or you wake up with a neck cramp from that ancient mattress in the guest cabin. Sound familiar?

Cottage season is a cherished escape, but it also comes with its own set of physical demands and unexpected mishaps — especially for parents, grandparents, and weekend warriors who might overdo it in the name of fun or chores. The good news? Chiropractic care may help address many of the common injuries and discomforts that sneak up on you during cottage season.

Let's take a look at how these "cottage classics" affect your body — and how your chiropractor may help get you back to enjoying the good stuff.

Common Cottage Injuries That Can Strain Your Body

Back Strains from Lifting or Yard Work

Chopping wood, carrying coolers, pulling kayaks from the water — it's all part of the cottage lifestyle. But those repetitive, heavy, or awkward motions can easily lead to lower back pain, hip tightness, or even sciatic nerve irritation.

Even something as simple as lifting a grandchild or hauling patio furniture can leave your muscles sore and joints out of alignment.

Slips, Trips, and Falls

Whether it's a mossy dock, wet deck, or an unexpected rock on a hiking trail, falls are one of the most common causes of musculoskeletal injuries at the cottage. Even if you don't break anything, you might feel the effects later: whiplash, neck stiffness, bruised joints, or nagging hip or knee pain from a twisted landing.

Water-Related Whiplash or Twists

Think tubing, wakeboarding, or just roughhousing in the water with the family. These activities can cause sudden jerks to the neck or spine — resulting in soreness, headaches, or muscle imbalances that linger long after the weekend ends.

Sleeping in Strange Beds

Cottages are cozy, but the beds? Not always chiropractor-approved. Lumpy mattresses, flat pillows, or camping cots can contribute to neck pain, back stiffness, and poor sleep posture — especially for older adults with existing joint or spine issues.

Postural Pain After Long Drives

For many families, getting to the cottage involves hours in the car. That road trip can take a toll — especially if you're behind the wheel or crammed in the backseat. The result? Tight shoulders, stiff hips, or lower back tension that can linger throughout your stay.

How Chiropractic Care May Help You Recover (and Get Back to the Lake)

Chiropractors specialize in restoring proper alignment to the spine and joints, reducing inflammation, and improving mobility. If your body feels "off" after the cottage, here's how your chiropractor may help:

1. Realignment After a Fall or Strain

Gentle chiropractic adjustments may realign your spine and joints, relieving pressure on nerves and soft tissues. This could significantly reduce pain, increase range of motion, and promote healing — especially after slips, lifting injuries, or water mishaps.

2. Relief from Neck and Shoulder Tension

If you're dealing with tension headaches, a sore neck, or aching shoulders from poor sleep or tubing wipeouts, your chiropractor may use targeted techniques to release tight muscles and improve joint function.

3. Rehab for Recurring Issues

Summer often flares up chronic conditions like arthritis, sciatica, or previous injuries. Chiropractors may offer ongoing care plans, including exercises and posture advice, to help manage pain and prevent flare-ups.

4. Post-Trip Recovery and Prevention

Think of a chiropractic visit as a post-cottage tune-up. Even if you're not in serious pain, an assessment might catch small misalignments before they become big problems — helping you stay active all summer long.

Don't Wait Until the Pain Gets Worse

The joys of summer shouldn't come with aches that linger into September. If you're feeling sore, stiff, or "off" after a weekend at the cottage, your body might be trying to tell you something. Chiropractic care offers a safe, effective, drug-free way to address common summer injuries and restore your mobility.

Whether you're hauling gear, chasing kids, or just trying to enjoy your time at the lake without wincing — it's worth getting checked out.

Better Health May Be for You: Book Your Appointment Today

If your body's asking for help after your last cottage escape, don't wait.

Contact Dr. Lanoue today and schedule a summer recovery session. Your spine (and your summer plans) will thank you!

Better health may be for you: Call Dr. Lanoue