New research has found that 23% of people are so desperate for relief from summer aches and pains that they have taken prescription painkillers prescribed for someone else. The study, by Combogesic, an over-the-counter opioid-free pain relief, also revealed that 51% of Brits suffer from headaches, 38% from lower back pain, and 30% from leg pain during the summer months.
GP highlights risks
GP Dr Nisa Aslam noted that summer brings numerous pain traps, including shoulder and back pain from luggage, aching legs from hikes, sore elbows from tennis, aching hips from long car journeys, back pain from gardening, and headaches from heat. The research indicates that some people are left unable to work, walk, or even get out of bed due to these issues.
Dr Aslam warned that taking medication not prescribed for you can be dangerous, and emphasized that prescriptions are specific to the person they are given to.
Five tips to avoid summer pain
Dr Aslam offered five tips to prevent common summer pains. First, stretch every day for five to ten minutes, focusing on the full body with exercises like cat-cows arching and rounding the back in an all-fours position, then pushing hips back to heels and walking hands forward. Also, sit on the floor and reach down straight legs to stretch the back and hamstrings.
Second, stay hydrated to prevent dehydration-related headaches, and reduce alcohol and caffeine intake on hot days. Third, use a backpack to evenly distribute weight and avoid carrying heavy bags on one side for long periods, taking regular stretch breaks. Fourth, watch your form while gardening: break tasks into shorter bursts and squat instead of bending to keep a flat back. Fifth, avoid long periods of sitting by getting up regularly for walks or stretches, and fidget to prevent stiffness.
While prevention is important, Dr Aslam advised that if aches occur, people should opt for an over-the-counter opioid-free pain relief option for mild to moderate pain.
