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Summer in Northwest Arkansas is the perfect time to get outdoors, stay active, and enjoy everything from backyard barbecues to team sports and lake days. But with the increase in physical activity comes a higher risk of orthopaedic injuries— from sprains and fractures to shoulder and knee pain that can sideline your fun.

Dr. S. Gray McClatchy, a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon with Ozark Orthopaedics, says that while summer injuries are common, many are preventable with the right approach.

“ Summer brings a surge in recreational injuries, especially among kids and weekend warriors,” says Dr. McClatchy, who specializes in adult and pediatric sports medicine, arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder and knee, and shoulder reconstruction.“ The key is preparation— stretching, hydration, appropriate gear, and knowing your limits can go a long way.”

COMMON SUMMER INJURIES Dr. McClatchy sees a range of injuries spike in the warmer months.“ Ankle sprains from hiking, ACL tears in youth sports, and rotator cuff strains from activities like swimming and baseball are especially prevalent,” he notes.“ Shoulder instability is also a concern for younger athletes in overhead sports.”

Adults often face knee and lower back injuries related to sudden increases in activity after a sedentary winter.“ We see patients go from zero to one hundred with running or sports without proper conditioning, and that’ s when trouble starts,” Dr. McClatchy adds.

TIPS FOR STAYING INJURY-FREE Dr. McClatchy recommends the following for a safer, more enjoyable summer:

• Warm up and cool down: Don’ t skip dynamic stretching before activity and take time to cool down and hydrate afterward.

• Gradual progression: Increase the intensity or duration of new physical activities over several weeks— not all at once.

• Wear the right gear: Footwear that fits and supports properly can prevent countless injuries.

• Listen to your body: Pain is a signal.“ Don’ t try to push through an injury,” says Dr. McClatchy.“ Early evaluation can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.”

QUALITY ORTHOPAEDIC CARE— WHEN AND WHERE YOU NEED IT

Despite your best efforts, injuries can still happen. That’ s where Ozark Orthopaedics comes in. With a commitment to providing comprehensive orthopaedic care throughout Northwest Arkansas, patients have access to experienced specialists across Fayetteville, Bentonville, Siloam Springs, and Eureka Springs.

For injuries that can’ t wait, Ozark Orthopaedics offers Ortho Injury Walk-In Clinics in Fayetteville and Bentonville, open Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 8 PM, with no appointment needed.

“ Whether it’ s a sudden injury or a nagging pain, we’ re here to help get you back to what you love— quickly and safely,” says Dr. McClatchy.

ORTHOPAEDIC ADVICE AT YOUR FINGERTIPS— 24 / 7 / 365

In addition to in-person care, Ozark Orthopaedics also offers free, on-demand access to expert orthopaedic advice through the HURT! app.

� DR. MCCLATCHY examines a patient.

This free 24 / 7 tool connects you instantly with an orthopaedic specialist to guide your next steps— whether you need urgent care, can wait for a clinic visit, or just need peace of mind.

Download the HURT! app on your phone or visit poweredbyhurt. com / ozarkorthopaedic to start a consultation anytime, anywhere.

“ Injuries don’ t always happen on a schedule,” Dr. McClatchy says.“ With our urgent cares and the HURT! app, we’ ve made it easier than ever to get the help you need— when you need it most.”

YOUR SUMMER, YOUR HEALTH

Whether you’ re chasing your kids across the yard or chasing a personal best on the trail, Ozark Orthopaedics is here to help you move with confidence this summer.

“ Our goal is simple,” says Dr. McClatchy.“ To keep Northwest Arkansas active, healthy, and injury-free— every season of the year.”

To learn more or find a location near you, visit ozark-ortho. com.

SUMMER SAFETY & SKIN CARE ISSUE | JULY 2025 3 OURHEALTHNWA. COM