Walking is a simple, inexpensive and easy activity with many benefits for health and general wellbeing. Walking regularly can improve heart and lung function, aid in weight-loss, and can also boost mood, alertness and energy levels, but did you know that walking can benefit your spinal health too?
Here are four back benefits of walking:
1. Increase circulation to the spine
Walking increases circulation, bringing the body into balance and increasing stamina as blood pressure is lowered by the increased circulation. The continual flow of blood ensures that nutrients make it the spine and the surrounding soft tissues are nourished and enriched.
The movement of blood through the body helps to nourishes all of the muscles, making you stronger whilst also making it easier to exercise. Essentially, the more you walk, the easier it becomes.
2. Helps rehydrate spinal disks
Our daily bodily movements cause compression on the spinal discs, squeezing out the discs’ water that provides cushion for the vertebrae. The increased circulation from walking helps to rehydrate the discs by moving water to where the discs can absorb it.
3. Improves postural position
Poor posture is often the result of sedentary positions such as office work or extended use of computers and mobile devices. Poor posture places extra pressure on the spine which can lead to tension, soreness, headaches and back pain.
Walking strengthens the body and helps position the spine in its upright natural shape. When walking properly you naturally adopt proper posture. Good posture allows you to breathe better and can help reduce fatigue and the other side effects associated with bad posture.
4. Relieves spinal stress and back pain
Walking is a low impact exercise that assists in improving flexibility and mobility. Accompanied by a regimen of stretching, walking can help improve flexibility and lead to a better range of motion. Walking also aids in weight loss and weight management, which can help relieve the stress extra body weight causes the spine.
Just Start Walking
The Australian Chiropractors Association (ACA) is committed to empowering people to walk more and enjoy the benefits of regular walking. The Just Start Walking app, developed by the ACA, is a great tool to help get you walking today.
The app has a number of features, including tracking distance and pace of walk, setting goals, daily reminders, ability to save walks, connect to Spotify and so much more! Download the free app today from the App Store or Google Play.
Your ACA chiropractor can also help. They can provide you with tailored and appropriate care, as well as lifestyle advice to help improve your spinal health and overall wellbeing.
To find your local ACA chiropractor visit findachiro.org.au
