Back pain is a common discomfort that can be difficult to shake once it sets in. Researchers suggest a simple way to make back pain more manageable and potentially extend the time between episodes.
Over 600 million people worldwide suffer from back pain, with studies showing that 7 out of 10 individuals experience a relapse within a year after recovery. This makes back pain a major cause of disability globally (source).
The Spine Pain Research Group at Macquarie University in Australia conducted a study indicating that regular walking can help treat back pain. They suggest that some current exercise recommendations may not be suitable or practical due to cost or supervision requirements (source).
A recent study published in the journal Lancet focused on 701 adults who had recovered from low back pain lasting at least 24 hours. Participants were assigned to a personalized walking program, physical therapy sessions, or a control group with no treatment (Dr. Mark Hancock).
The researchers observed that the walkers experienced less back pain, reduced the need for medical assistance, and halved their sick leave. The time between episodes nearly doubled from 112 days to 208 days.
Dr. Hancock believes walking’s benefits come from gentle motion and muscle strengthening, as well as stress-relieving effects. While some experts agree that low-intensity exercise like walking can help with back pain, others suggest the study’s findings may not be groundbreaking.
In conclusion, while walking may not be a quick fix for back pain, it is a recommended low-intensity exercise that can provide relief over time. It’s important to keep moving and gradually improve rather than sitting still and doing nothing.
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Source: www.sciencefocus.com
