Given Charleston’s considerable coastal charm and miles of beautiful beaches, it’s no wonder so many locals spend their free time paddleboarding, golfing, surfing, or just enjoying a stroll through town. But this active environment, combined with work-from-home setups and screen-heavy habits, can take a serious toll on your spine and joints.

“People are very active,” says Dr. Julia Platt, “so think like golfing, paddleboarding, biking … but we get a combination of overuse from being active or poor ergonomic habits.” The result? A spike in chronic neck pain, low back tension, and postural stress injuries that can sneak up on even the most health-conscious residents.

Water Sports and Spinal Alignment

Boating, surfing, and kayaking may feel refreshing, particularly on all those muggy summer days, but they often involve unnatural postures and repetitive movements. Paddling frequently engages the core, while the uneven bounce of choppy waves stresses the lower back and shoulders.

Even relaxing onboard isn’t always spine-friendly. “Simply sitting on a boat for hours at a time in a non-supportive seat with the constant axial compression can cause some issues over time,” Dr. Julia explains. Gentle, precise adjustments can help realign the spine and restore balance after a day on the water.

Chiropractic for Peak Performance

Moving is absolutely critical, yes, but so is moving well. Chiropractic care helps improve coordination, mobility, and recovery, especially for those who engage in regular recreational activities.

Many patients notice performance benefits, whether they’re swinging a golf club or carrying beach gear (especially when they’re carrying a cooler, towels, and three folding chairs by themselves). “Our care will focus on getting the misalignment out of the spine so that their body can move more efficiently, recover faster, and reduce the likelihood of repetitive injuries coming back,” says Dr. Julia.

Smart Posture Tips for Every Setting

Whether you’re working remotely or lounging by the sea, posture matters. Consider investing in a supportive chair (gaming chairs often offer excellent ergonomics) and raising your laptop screen to eye level. Take breaks every 20 to 30 minutes to stretch or walk. And if you’re headed to the beach, skip those flimsy sling chairs and opt for one with lumbar support to protect your spine as you relax.