Summer brings longer days, outdoor projects, and plenty of travel, but it also brings a higher risk of back pain. Many of us adopt daily habits during the warmer months that place unnecessary mechanical stress on our spines.
At Spine Group Beverly Hills in Santa Monica, California, Dr. John Regan, MD, helps patients identify these hidden risks. If you're struggling with persistent back pain or neck pain, understanding your daily habits is the first step toward relief.
Spine issues are incredibly common and continue to rise globally. According to a study published in Frontiers in Public Health (2024), an estimated 628.8 million people worldwide were affected by low back pain in 2021.
This issue is particularly severe for adults who are still in their peak working years. Research from the National Institutes of Health (2025) shows that the prevalence of low back pain among the working-age population has surged to 452.8 million cases globally.
Many of our favorite summer activities can lead to a herniated disc or muscle strain. Here are five daily habits that could be quietly harming your back.
If you experience a sudden flare-up, don't make the mistake of staying in bed. The Mayo Clinic (2025) notes that prolonged bed rest can actually worsen back pain, while low-impact exercises like swimming or walking are medically preferred for recovery.
When you do need to lift heavy summer project materials, keep your back completely straight, hold the object close to your body, and bend at the knees to lift using your leg muscles. This simple adjustment protects your discs and prevents severe injuries.
If summer activities have left you dealing with chronic discomfort, you don't have to live with the pain. Our team offers advanced solutions, ranging from conservative care to minimally invasive spine surgery. Please contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Regan.
