Low back pain affects millions worldwide, with numbers expected to rise to 843 million by 2050. A new study offers hope, revealing that regular walking can significantly reduce the recurrence of low back pain. The study, published in The Lancet, followed 701 Australian adults who had recently recovered from low back pain. Participants who walked regularly were pain-free nearly twice as long as those who did not, with a median of 208 days compared to 112 days. Walking, a low-cost and accessible form of exercise, was shown to be an effective way to prevent back pain, offering longer pain-free periods and reducing the need for medical visits and time off work.
Incorporating breath work with a walking routine can increase the function of your breathing muscles so they won't get tired as quickly. Antonio_Diaz/iStockphoto/Getty Images
Walking helps by improving circulation to the muscles supporting the back, enhancing joint fluid movement, and strengthening core muscles around the spine. It also boosts metabolism, reduces weight, and increases muscle endurance, which are all crucial for spinal health. Experts recommend starting with good shoes and varying paces and distances to prevent injuries. For those experiencing back pain during walking, switching to activities like cycling or swimming, along with stretching and back exercises, can be beneficial.
