By Dr. Patrice Gestraud, Orthopedic Specialist at Aventino Medical Group, Rome
When summer puts feet and joints to the test
Every summer, I see many patients returning from vacation with pain in the ankles, feet, knees, or hands.
Wearing inadequate shoes, lifting heavy luggage, or engaging in unfamiliar sports may seem harmless, but often lead to inflammation, joint overload, or even injuries.
One of the most common conditions is tendinitis, or even rupture of the Achilles tendon—especially in patients who skip warm-up or stretching before playing sports like tennis.
These issues are common and often underestimated, but if left untreated, they can affect daily wellbeing for weeks or months.
Light shoes… but not for your joints
Flip-flops, flat sandals, or unsupported shoes may seem ideal in summer, but they force the foot to work improperly, without stability or shock absorption.
This can cause plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, posterior tibial tendonitis, or Achilles tendinitis. Posture can also be affected, leading to back and knee pain.
In clinical practice, I always recommend alternating open and closed shoes, and choosing contoured soles or ergonomic insoles if you plan to walk for long periods.
When sudden movement leads to injury
Mountain hikes, city walks, or beach sports are great for health—but require preparation.
This means doing muscle-strengthening exercises starting 15 days before the holidays.
Every year I treat patients with:
- ankle or knee sprains, often with anterior cruciate ligament tears,
- wrist or hand inflammation from improper lifting,
- overuse injuries such as tendinitis or bursitis,
- muscle strains,
- rotator cuff tendinitis.
In these cases, a clinical evaluation and onsite ultrasound allow us to quickly assess the issue and intervene promptly.
Conservative Treatments and Minimally Invasive Surgery
Whenever possible, conditions are treated conservatively—with injections, braces, rehabilitation physiotherapy, and custom orthotics.
When pain persists or structural damage is present, surgery is often the definitive solution.
Common conditions treated with minimally invasive surgery include:
- bunions, hammer toes, and metatarsalgia,
- Morton’s neuroma and chronic plantar fasciitis,
- carpal tunnel syndrome and trigger finger,
- synovial cysts and localized arthritis,
- knee arthroscopy for meniscus or ligament injuries.
Integrated Diagnostic and Therapeutic Pathway
At Aventino Medical Group, musculoskeletal ultrasounds and ultrasound-guided injections can be performed promptly.
For second-level tests like X-rays, CT, or MRI, we refer patients to trusted external facilities.
The same applies to physiotherapy: patients are referred to qualified centers that ensure continuity and quality of care.
The goal is to offer an integrated, effective, and personalized approach—reducing waiting times and guiding the patient at every stage of the therapeutic journey.
Prevention First, Targeted Treatment Later
If pain persists for more than 2–3 days, worsens with movement, or limits daily activities, it should not be ignored.
With early diagnosis and a few precautions, complications can be avoided and recovery accelerated.
👉 If you’re experiencing joint or muscle discomfort after the holidays or want a specialist’s opinion, book a visit—we’ll find the best solution together.
