If you are living with spinal pain or a problem with your joints, going for a walk may be just the “medicine” you need! Motion can be like a soothing lotion for your back and joints. What are some of the reasons that walking is so good for you? What are some tips to consider if you are starting a new walking routine? Read on to learn more.
Four Benefits that Come from a Program of Daily Walking
Why is walking a great exercise for a person who gets joint pain, and what other additional benefits come from this type of activity? Here are four benefits that come from a daily routine of going for a walk.
- When you walk, the fluid in your joints bathes the surrounding surfaces. This promotes healing and reduces pain.
- Performing weight-bearing exercise increases your bone density. Walking uses your own body weight, so it is considered a weight-bearing exercise.
- When you walk, mechanoreceptors are activated. This also helps to reduce pain levels.
- Walking is cardiovascular exercise. So your heart benefits from your daily walk as well.
These are just some of the significant benefits that come from a daily walk. But how can you stick to a good routine if you live with joint pain? Here are a few tips.
Four Tips for Walking with Back or Joint Pain
Don’t let pain stop you from getting in your daily walks. Here are four tips to help.
- Walking shouldn’t hurt. If walking itself is painful, stop immediately. However, if you are always in pain, you can still walk. Just make sure the walk isn’t making the pain worse.
- Find a flat surface for walking. If your road has some slopes, that’s okay. Try to avoid off-road trails with lots of rocks and places you could trip or twist your ankle.
- Don’t overexert yourself. If you start walking hard for miles on day one, you may not be able to get out of bed for your walk on day two. Speak with a physician before starting a new exercise program.
- Walk in the sun. This lets you get some vitamin D during your walks. That is important for calcium absorption and bone health. Just be sure to wear sunscreen.
But what if you are still dealing with pain in your back or joints? The issue could be a misalignment that needs to be corrected by a chiropractor.
Ward Chiropractic & Rehabilitation is here when you need us with flexible scheduling to meet your needs. Give us a call today at 703.672.1661 to schedule an appointment.
