Protecting Your Joints During the Back-to-School Hustle
By Dr. Jeffrey Pearson
The end of summer brings a familiar rhythm: school supplies flood store aisles, class schedules start showing up in inboxes, and for many women, it’s a mad dash—from boardrooms to bleachers, from carpool to dinner on the kitchen table.
It’s a time of fresh starts, full calendars—and often, sore joints.
As an orthopedic surgeon, I see it every fall: women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s who’ve spent years managing their family, home, career, and everyone else’s needs—finally slowing down just long enough to realize something hurts. Maybe it’s a nagging ache in the knee when getting out of the car. Maybe it’s a sharp twinge in the hip when picking up a child. Maybe it’s a sore back after hauling sports bags to the fields for the third time in a week.
These aren’t isolated incidents. They’re signs your joints are waving a white flag—and it’s time to start listening.
The “Invisible Load” of Motherhood—Literally
Modern women carry a lot. Some run businesses or classrooms. Others raise kids, mentor colleagues, support aging parents—or even do all of that in one day. The mental, emotional, and physical toll is real, even if it’s not always visible.
Over time, wear and tear show up in the knees, hips, feet, and back. The medical term is “repetitive microtrauma,” but most of my patients just call it being a mom.
Even small, daily movements—like twisting to pass snacks to carpool passengers or standing all day in unsupportive shoes—can stress your joints, especially if your routine doesn’t include regular stretching and movement.
What Joint Pain Is Telling You
Let’s clear something up: pain is not “just part of getting older.” While some stiffness can come with age, chronic or worsening pain signals inflammation, arthritis, or biomechanical stress—and deserves attention.
If you’re modifying your routine—avoiding stairs, skipping walks with friends, or even canceling your weekly lunch at a café because it hurts to sit too long—it’s time to act. Don’t wait until the pain is debilitating. Earlier treatment almost always means less intervention and faster recovery.
Back-to-School Tips for Better Joint Health
You don’t have to overhaul your life to protect your joints. Start with these small, daily tweaks:
- Mind Your Posture in the Car: Slouching—especially while looking down at your phone—compresses your spine and hips. Sit upright, bring your seat closer to the wheel, and try seated stretches during long waits.
- Upgrade Your Footwear: Wedges and sandals may look great, but they often lack proper support. Choose shoes with good arch support and cushioning—your knees and back will thank you.
- Watch the Lifting: Whether it’s a heavy laptop bag, a case of water, or a squirming kid having a tantrum (ask me how I know) bend your knees and lift with your legs—not your back. Don’t hesitate to ask for help.
- Schedule Recovery Time: After a long day of meetings, errands, or cheering from the bleachers, ice your knees or lower back for 10–15 minutes. Refuel with anti-inflammatory foods—berries, leafy greens, or a light, protein-rich lunch—to support energy without weighing you down.
- Move with Purpose: A short walk after dinner or a low-impact yoga class at the Y can go a long way in keeping your joints flexible and your body feeling balanced.
When It’s Time to See a Specialist
If joint pain limits your movement, sleep, or mood—or if over-the-counter remedies aren’t helping—it may be time to see a specialist. Modern orthopedic care has come a long way. With advanced imaging, targeted injections, and tailored treatment options, women today have more tools than ever to stay active, strong, and in the game—without missing a beat.
Final Thoughts
You’ve spent years making sure everyone else is ready for the school year. This fall, maybe it’s time to add yourself to the checklist.
Your joints carry you through more than you realize—from carpool lanes to marathon meetings, grocery runs, and everything in between. When you take care of them, they’ll take care of you—so you can keep showing up for all the moments that matter most.
Dr. Jeffrey Pearson
Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon
Fellowship-Trained in Hip, Knee & Shoulder Replacement
Dr. Pearson is a Shreveport native who specializes in minimally invasive joint replacement for active adults. He combines advanced technology with personalized care to help patients stay strong, mobile, and doing what they love.
The Flex Institute
Shreveport, Louisiana
Serving patients at Specialists Hospital Shreveport and Willis-Knighton Health System
For more info: flexinstitute.com