One Wrong Move ... Owie!
By Sara Butler
Lower back pain is one of the most common disabilities across the world for a reason. With every single step you take, the muscles of the hips and lower back are hard at work to help keep you in motion. Just one wrong move can improperly twist them and set you up for pain and discomfort. Walking is a simple action, so it’s often overlooked at the source of back problems. Here are a few ways you can reduce the stress and strain placed on your back while walking in order to stay safe and healthy, according to the chiropractors at The Joint.
How One Wrong Move Can Hurt
The lower back goes through a wide range of motion when you walk. If it’s unable to support body weight properly, then the joints and muscles have to compensate. That means they will work harder, adding stress that could lead to complications such as:
- Muscle strain
- Pinched nerve
- Bulging disc
- Cracked vertebrae
- Joint damage
The most common ways people injure their backs while walking include hazards such as:
- Uneven ground
- Clutter on the floor
- Walking while distracted or rushed
- Unseen holes in the ground
- Slick weather conditions
Techniques to Ensure Safety
What you do when you’re not walking can have a big impact on the health of your back, too. In fact, if you have bad habits it can make you more susceptible to injury and pain when walking. You should:
- Practice good posture
- Sit with your back straight
- Lift with your legs, never your back
- Don’t slouch
- Think about your back position habits
Allow Footwear to Help
Shoes are a lot like the tires on your car; when the tread is worn, it’s time for a new set! Your shoes must provide proper support for the lower back when walking and doing everyday activities or you increase the risk of injury. You should consider these tips when contemplating your footwear choices:
- Avoid high heels and flip-flops
- Consider custom orthotics
- Have your feet measured so you can wear the right size
- Replace shoes regularly
These tips can help you to keep your back healthy and safe during activities you perform every day, such as walking. They can help reduce your chances of a major injury from just one wrong move. So make changes and move forward to protect your health – one step at a time!
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Las Vegas, Nev.