Relieving Back Pain: Can Walking Help?

Lower back pain is a common issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It often leads to discomfort and limits daily activities. At Carolina Rehab and Physical Medicine Center in Little River, SC, we understand the impact of lower back pain. We dedicate our practice to providing effective solutions to help our patients find relief and improve their quality of life.

Understanding Back Pain

Lower back pain can result from various factors, including poor posture, muscle strain, herniated discs, and degenerative disc disease. It can range from a dull, constant ache to a sudden, sharp pain that makes movement difficult. Regardless of the cause, finding effective relief is crucial for maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle.

Spinal Decompression Therapy to Relieve Back Pain

Spinal Decompression Therapy is one of the most advanced treatments we offer for relieving lower back pain. We use a premier spinal decompression table, one of the few that is FDA-cleared for spinal decompression. This non-surgical, drug-free treatment is designed to alleviate pressure on the spinal discs, promoting healing and reducing pain. Our state-of-the-art Accu Spina Therapy system gently stretches the spine, creating negative pressure within the discs. This negative pressure helps retract herniated or bulging discs, alleviating pressure on the nerves and reducing pain.

The Benefits of Spinal Decompression Therapy

  • Non-invasive and drug-free
  • Can provide long-term pain relief
  • Improves mobility and flexibility
  • Promotes natural healing of the spine

The WalkBack Study: The Power of Walking

In addition to advanced therapies like Spinal Decompression, we stay abreast of discoveries that can improve our patient’s stability after treatment. Recent research has highlighted the benefits of simple lifestyle changes in managing and preventing lower back pain. The “WalkBack” study, conducted by Macquarie University, found that incorporating regular walking into your routine can significantly reduce the likelihood of back pain recurrence.

The University recruited 701 participants across Australia who had experienced an episode of low back pain in the last six months but had recovered by the time they enrolled in the trial.

We randomly allocated participants to one of two groups. One group received a progressive and individualized walking and education program delivered by a physiotherapist across six sessions, while the other group received no treatment (i.e., a control group).

The full results of the study were published in The Lancet. In summary, the study revealed that walking helps strengthen the muscles that support the spine, improves posture, and enhances overall spinal health. Compared to the control group, participants who walked reduced the recurrence of low back pain, which limits everyday activities, by 28 percent.

Incorporating Walking into Your Routine

  • Start with short, manageable walks and gradually increase duration.
  • Aim for at least 30 minutes of walking most days of the week.
  • Maintain good posture while walking to maximize benefits:
  1. Keep your head up and look forward. Avoid looking down at your feet, as this can cause neck strain.
  2. Keep your shoulders relaxed and not hunched. Gently pull them back to open up your chest.
  3. Let your arms swing naturally with a slight bend at the elbows. Avoid clenching your fists; keep your hands relaxed.
  4. Engage your core muscles to support your spine. Strong core muscles help maintain stability and balance.
  5. Keep your back straight but not rigid. Avoid slouching or arching your back excessively.
  6. Move your hips naturally with each step. Avoid exaggerated movements or twisting.
  7. Walk with your feet pointing forward. Land on your heel and roll through to your toes with each step. Keep your steps even and avoid dragging your feet.
  8. Take comfortable steps that are not too long or too short. Your stride should feel natural and relaxed.

Remember, good walking posture can help you walk more efficiently and comfortably, reducing the risk of strain and injury.

Our Comprehensive Approach for Back Pain

At Carolina Rehab and Physical Medicine Center, we believe in a holistic approach to managing lower back pain. We utilize our state-of-the-art Spinal Decompression Therapy, chiropractic, and simple, effective lifestyle changes, to achieve optimal results and long-term relief for our patients.

Our comprehensive approach includes:

  • Personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs
  • Offering therapies such as the State-of-the-art Spinal Decompression Therapy, PRP Therapy, and Chiropractic care for a personalized approach to your physical problems.
  • Guidance on lifestyle changes to stabilize and improve your overall health.
  • Ongoing support and monitoring to ensure lasting results

Please watch the following testimonial from one of our patients. Click here.

Take the First Step Toward Back Pain Relief

Don’t wait to seek relief if you’re struggling with lower back pain. At Carolina Rehab and Physical Medicine Center, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how our comprehensive approach can provide the relief you need to live a pain-free life.

By combining cutting-edge treatments with proven lifestyle modifications, we offer unique and effective solutions to treating lower back pain. Whether you’re experiencing acute pain or looking to prevent future episodes, Carolina Rehab and Physical Medicine Center is your partner in achieving lasting relief and improved well-being.

Craig Strickland, DC
Carolina Rehab and Physical Medicine Center

1539 Highway 17, Little River, SC 29566

843-249-9787

We give patients a better overall lifestyle rather than treating one condition at a time so they can live happier, healthier lives. Call us for a complimentary consultation.
*THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAM, OR TREATMENT WHICH IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT.
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