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The Health Benefits of Walking

As chiropractors, we commonly encourage motion as it is not only helpful for the spine and joints, it is good for your overall health as well. Especially after an adjustment when a patient is experiencing symptoms of a disc bulge, we recommend walking instead of sitting to help provide motion and adequate blood flow to the area. Below are the health benefits walking can help you receive.

Health Benefits of Walking

Relieves Pain

The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) also recommends walking to help relieve back pain as it is gentle on the spine in comparison to running and great for heart health since this activity can burn 265 calories in thirty minutes. Exercise and walking in particular also release a group of hormones called endorphins which aid in reducing pain.

Increases Circulation

Walking also increases circulation throughout the body, including the spine. This ensures a continual flow of blood to the muscles and nutrients to the spine. In regards to a person’s health, walking also helps lower blood pressure which is another benefit for heart health as well.

Increases Your Spine’s Mobility and Flexibility

Taking a closer look at range of motion, walking in turn increases mobility and flexibility of the spine. When there is better overall motion in the spine, injury is less likely and posture can also be vastly improved. During the day movement causes compression of your spinal discs, squeezing out the water that fills the discs so they provide a cushion or your vertebrae. The increased circulation that comes from walking also helps to move vital water to the area. The discs absorb this water, rehydrating them so they can continue to do their job as shock absorbers for the spinal column. This is also a great case for staying well hydrated by drinking lots of water not only while you walk, but also throughout the day.

The spine is part of the body’s core and the muscles that surround the spine aid in balance and movement. When excess weight is present those muscles become strained as they must work harder to maintain balance. Walking most definitely helps with weight management and weight loss.

Walking Provides Your Body With Many Health Benefits

As an overview, walking benefits the whole body. It reduces your risk of heart disease, improves blood sugar and blood pressure, reduces your risk of osteoporosis, helps you maintain body weight, improves your mental health, and can even reduce your risk of certain cancers. With the spine at the core of your body, good spinal health plays a part in every one of these conditions. By combining walking with chiropractic care, you are giving your body its best chance at good health and optimal function.

The Van Ness Chiropractic Difference

At Van Ness Chiropractic, we realize that maintaining optimal health is not one size fits all. Our doctors have the clinical knowledge to offer advice and treatment that is both effective and empowering.  Call us today at 847-842-8070 to set up your appointment for a comprehensive examination and get on the road to health today.  You can also visit us at vannesschiro.com to find out more.