Walk Away Lower Back Pain
By Sara Butler
It happens to nearly everyone, or at least about 80 percent of people -- lower back strain. Your first instinct might be to lay in bed or hit your recliner but resist that instinct and try going for a walk instead. Studies have shown that if you suffer from chronic lower back pain that regular exercise can help to reduce your pain. Here are a few ways you can walk away lower back pain.
Get Loose
When you are suddenly struggling with lower back pain, it's probably the result of a muscle spasm. During the spasm, the muscles surrounding the impacted muscle will tighten up too in order to try to protect themselves. When you sit around, this tightness will only get worse. But if you go for a walk, then the muscles are given a chance to loosen up and that can help to make your pain better.
It Keeps You Moving
It used to be the standard treatment for back pain to rest, and while that advice is terribly outdated, people still believe that rest is the right prescription for lower back pain. When you walk regularly, then you can help your body to feel better faster by keeping your muscles toned and strong. As long as your pain isn't severe, it's important to remain active. But make sure to see the chiropractor about your back pain to identify what's causing it.
It Makes You Feel Good
When you exercise, your body releases endorphins. These feel-good chemicals make you feel, well, good. They can boost your mood and most importantly, they can help to reduce your body's perception of pain. They're natural pain relievers that can be released when you exercise, so tap into them to help you find relief.
It Reduces the Chances of a Repeat
When you have a regular exercise routine that includes walking, then you're less likely to experience low back pain. There's a lot of research out there that has found this simple idea to be true, so take it to heart and embrace regular walking as a way to keep your back healthy and pain-free.
Walking is a great way to stay active but more importantly, it's a great way to help make back pain a thing of the past. Remember, your body was made to move, so give it what it wants and get that body moving!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Mesa, Ariz.