Six spine surgeons share the activities that help them relax during the summer months.
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Question: What are some summer activities that help you unwind?
Kern Singh, MD. Co-Director of Minimally Invasive Spine Institute at Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush (Chicago): I try to enjoy the summer months by being outdoors as much as possible. I try to run outdoors every morning, and I enjoy reading a book or magazine outside during the evening. The summer months are also great for family outings, and my children really enjoy going to the lake and swimming.
Vladimir Sinkov, MD. Spine Surgeon at New Hampshire Orthopaedic Center (Nashua): I make sure to take time off for a vacation with my family, spend as much time outdoors as possible and grill!
Plas T. James, MD. Spine Surgeon at Atlanta Spine Institute: In Atlanta, our weather's great, so I like to play golf. I also try to do one major vacation a year usually in the summer time. I also enjoy outdoor activities such as climbing or going to concerts. I think it's important to have a hobby and to find something that you really enjoy doing.
Zafar Khan, MD. Co-Director of the Robotic Spine Institute at Coastline Orthopaedic Associates (Fountain Valley, Calif.): I think travel is key for me. I can't feel like I am on vacation unless I enter a new environment and disconnect from the day to day. Everyone is different, but in my opinion, that's a good way to recharge.
Richard Kube, MD. Founder and CEO of Prairie Spine & Pain Institute (Peoria, Ill.): In the summer, it is spending time with the family. There is a lot of soccer, but not regimented like the season. Time relaxing at the pool is good as well, but in general, any time with the kids before they grow up and go out of the house is key for our family over the summer months.
Brian R. Gantwerker, MD. Founder of the Craniospinal Center of Los Angeles: Without a doubt, taking the family down to the pier for a group bike ride along the strand. The cousins' Memorial Day barbecue is a definite destination. Lastly, my brother, who lives in Dallas, comes up to stay at our house, and I watch him and our son eat us out of house and home. It honestly gives me great pleasure to have family in our home.