stopping this practice could lead to a resurgence of discomfort. While evidence suggests that maintaining physical activity plays a crucial role in preventing relapses, cessation of walking may indeed heighten the risk of recurring lower back pain.
Dr. Pocovi warns that once individuals cease their walking routines, they may notice a decline in their physical condition. “Continuing to walk helps maintain strength and flexibility in the back and surrounding muscles,” she states. “If that activity is interrupted, it’s quite possible for individuals to revert to their pre-exercise state, increasing their likelihood of experiencing back pain again.”
Louw echoes this sentiment, expressing concern over the potential decline in physical health associated with inactivity. “Active engagement is essential,” she urges. “When individuals abandon walking or exercise altogether, they may find their bodies are not as adaptable, making them more predisposed to injuries and discomfort once they resume regular activities.”
To counteract this, sustaining walking habits, even at a reduced frequency or intensity, is advisable. As Louw suggests, “If full workouts become challenging, consider integrating shorter, more manageable walks into your daily routine. Anything that keeps you moving can help stave off pain.”
In summary, while resting might appear to be the immediate solution for lower back pain, adopting a consistent walking practice could significantly enhance recovery and reduce the chances of future pain episodes. The insights from the WalkBack trial highlight the importance of physical activity, particularly walking, as a beneficial component in managing lower back pain and promoting overall health. The collaboration with physical therapists further enhances this approach, making engagement both safe and effective for those grappling with recurrent discomfort.Ceasing to walk may potentially lead to a recurrence of pain, a possibility highlighted by both Louw and Dr. Pocovi.
“To attain lasting results from any intervention, continuous or consistent engagement is usually essential. We believe that this principle applies to walking as well,” notes Dr. Pocovi.
Participants in a small-scale study published in the *Journal of Physiotherapy* reported that any interruption in their walking routine might provoke minor discomfort, which led them to recommit to their walking schedule. This emphasizes the need for regular physical activity in order to continue benefiting from it,” Dr. Pocovi adds.
In essence, if you have found that walking helps reduce your back pain, it’s wise to maintain this activity.
“It’s a straightforward concept: Movement reduces pain, but if one ceases to move and the pain returns, then continued movement becomes necessary,” Louw articulates.
Walking Safely With Lower Back Pain
While walking is generally a safe form of exercise, individuals with certain medical conditions—especially those affecting heart health, balance, or seniors—should consult their healthcare providers before starting a walking program, advises Louw.
Physiotherapists are equipped to perform comprehensive health assessments, work alongside doctors, and assist individuals in safely and gradually initiating a walking practice, she explains.
It’s important to progressively increase your walking duration to avoid injury. Additionally, consider the weather if you’re walking outdoors, Louw suggests.
“Weather can especially pose a challenge for seniors. In snowy conditions, it may be necessary to choose indoor alternatives, such as walking on a treadmill at a gym during part of the year,” she points out.
If you experience pain while walking, it doesn’t necessarily mean you need to abandon the activity altogether. Nevertheless, reducing your walking intensity or seeking further evaluation may be warranted if the discomfort persists, Louw recommends.
“Listen to your body’s signals,” she advises. “If you start to experience back pain, it might indicate that you’ve reached your limit for the day. However, this doesn’t entail a complete halt unless there’s a medical directive to do so. The [WalkBack] study has demonstrated that walking does not aggravate the condition. It’s crucial to understand that from a physiological perspective, inactivity can put more stress on the tissues compared to staying active.”
