Charlottesville, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – As spring approaches and temperatures rise into the 60s and 70s, many people are eager to get back outdoors and embrace an active lifestyle. However, Dr. Scott Wagner of Advanced Pain Management of Virginia warns that this seasonal enthusiasm can sometimes lead to injuries. “Too many people, the garden’s ready, the weather’s good, let’s go to Home Depot or Lowe’s and load the truck,” he said. “That might work for a 20-year-old, but sometimes it doesn’t work for a 40-year-old.”  

Wagner highlights a common issue he calls “false hubris,” where people believe they can pick up where they left off, despite months, or even years of inactivity. This overconfidence can result in pain and stiffness, particularly for those who neglect proper recovery. “Inflammatory markers could be as simple as stiffness, lack of range of motion, weakness,” he says. He advises people to gradually increase activity levels, ensure proper alignment and flexibility, and even consider dietary improvements before jumping back into intense workouts.  

To minimize the risk of injury, Wagner recommends approaching fitness with a structured training period before engaging in high-impact activities. For the average person, this means easing into outdoor workouts, allowing for rest days, and seeking professional guidance from trainers, physical therapists, or chiropractors if needed. Advanced Pain Management of Virginia, located behind Whole Foods in Charlottesville, offers non-surgical pain relief solutions for those struggling with chronic or acute pain. 

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