Get Your Walk On. Why Walking Is So Good For You.

If you have low back pain or tightness, have you tried going for a walk? Studies show walking is a safe and effective way to prevent, treat, and alleviate low back pain, a condition that affects 80 percent of U.S. citizens in their lifetime.

Dr. Gopal T. Raghunath, PT MS, DPT, CSCS, owner/clinic director of Clinic Grove Physical Therapy & Sports Rehabilitation, P.C. says, “The human body craves movement and exercise. Walking provides a host of benefits for individuals who experience chronic low-back pain and stiffness, ranging from weight reduction and increasing bone mineral density to helping combat osteoporosis, to improving cardiorespiratory fitness and reducing hypertension.”

Dr. Raghunath adds, “Walking is perhaps the simplest, easiest, and most cost effective way to get fit and stay fit. No expensive equipment or gym memberships required. Just appropriate attire, well-fitting shoes, and motivation to get moving.”

The following benefits from walking are listing below:

• Healthier spine – Walking helps with general circulation throughout the body to nourish the spine’s soft tissues.
• Increased bone mineral density – Walking is weight bearing and helps optimize bone density in efforts to fight osteoporosis and minimize falls and fractures.
• Improved flexibility and posture – Walking helps with improved range of motion, and better functional mobility and helps prevent injuries.
• Increased muscle strength – Stronger legs, hips, feet and core muscles lead to better balance and increased spinal stability.