Summer is here- but if you’re suffering from knee pain, you won’t be enjoying much of it.
There are SO many fun outdoor activities in Austin this summer, and I want to make sure that you’re making the most of it. Here are my top 5 recommendations for summer activities in Austin:
- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. This is a great place for a nice, light walk so you can enjoy the summer flowers and fresh air! Address: 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739.
- Barton Springs Municipal Pool. My family loves to swim in the summer, and the Barton Springs pool has been an Austin tradition for years! They aren’t requiring bookings anymore, but you’ll want to go earlier if you can because this place gets BUSY! There is also a cost for entry, but it differs on age and if you’re a resident it’s cheaper! Just remember to bring your ID. Address: 2201 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746.
- Boggy Creek Farm. Who doesn’t love farm-fresh produce?!?! This place offers everything from fruit and veggies, to locally made cheese and bread! There’s something for everyone, and it’s a great place to bring the kids (or grand kids) to. Address: 3414 Lyons Rd Austin, TX 75702.
- Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail. This is one of my favorite trails in Austin. It goes around Lady Bird Lake and has beautiful views. The walk is about 2.5 miles, so it’s a nice bit of exercise while not being too exhausting in the heat! This trail doesn’t have a physical address, but you can just type in “Anne and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail” in your GPS and it will take you there!
- Texas Farmer’s Market at Mueller. This is by far the best farmer’s market in Austin! It has over 50 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to CBD products! They have several awesome local bakeries there, one with the biggest and best chocolate chip cookies you’ll ever have! The market is only open on Sundays from 10 am to 2 pm. Address: 2006 Philomena St, Austin, TX 78723.
So, I’ve given you all of these cool places to go to- but what if you have knee pain? Maybe you could muddle through somehow, but you don’t want to be sidelined for the rest of the day if your pain gets worse doing any of these activities. While I always say “motion is lotion”, meaning you shouldn’t necessarily stop all activity if you have pain, some of these activities might be too much for someone currently suffering with knee pain. I’ve put together a few exercises and tips to help if you’re suffering with knee pain, that way you can get out and enjoy my favorite spots this summer.
1. Hamstring stretch (to stretch your knees)
2. Bridge exercise (to strengthen your legs and core)
3. Try ice on the joint and heat on the muscles. Trying icing your knee joint, then heating the leg muscles above and below the knee. If possible, elevate your knee above the level or your heart to decrease swelling.
4. GET HELP. These exercises are a great place to get started, but really, if you’ve had knee pain for more than 2 weeks, speaking with a knee pain specialist is imperative so you are able to do all of the fun things you want to this summer!
If you’re struggling with knee pain, call our Knee Pain Specialists at 512-730-0231.
