Walking benefits lower back pain patients

Dr. David Petrover, a radiologist and specialist in musculoskeletal disorders, explains that walking can be beneficial for individuals experiencing lower back pain. Movement is generally recommended for common lower back pain, even when the pain has persisted for several weeks.

Study supports walking as a preventive measure

An Australian study published in June 2024 in the journal The Lancet evaluated the effects of a progressive walking program combined with educational advice among 701 adults who had recently recovered from an episode of lower back pain. The study, called WalkBack, found that participants who benefited from this intervention experienced a recurrence of lower back pain limiting their activities after a median duration of 208 days, compared to only 112 days in the control group.

Walking should be integrated into daily routines

Dr. Petrover emphasizes that there is no ideal duration of walking valid for everyone. The most important thing is to integrate walking into a daily routine. He recommends walking a little every day, and several times a day. Rather than planning a long walk, the specialist advises splitting walking sessions.

Proper walking techniques reduce risk

To avoid worsening back pain while walking, Dr. Petrover recommends preferring a regular terrain, especially when one already suffers from the lower back. It is better to walk on flat terrain, with good shoes and at a normal, reasonable pace. The choice of equipment is also important: comfortable shoes offering good support.

Natural posture is key

There is no unique posture that can eliminate back pain. The essential thing is to walk naturally, without trying to excessively stiffen one's body. One can notably keep the gaze forward, let the arms swing freely, and avoid tensing up.

Physical activity should be varied and adapted

There is no universally recommended sport for all people suffering from lower back pain. The choice depends on the nature of the pain, physical abilities, and individual preferences. Walking presents the advantage of being a low-impact activity, easy to adapt and regularly practiced. Running can also be considered for some people with lower back pain, but it is not necessarily adapted during a painful phase.

Walking complements muscle strengthening

Walking engages certain trunk stabilizing muscles and helps maintain physical condition. However, it does not replace a targeted muscle strengthening program. For Dr. Petrover, working only on the back muscles would be too restrictive. Strengthening the abdominal muscles, glutes, legs, and other muscle groups improves overall physical abilities. A physiotherapist can propose adapted exercises, especially for people suffering from persistent pain.

Medical consultation is essential

When a back pain appears, it is important not to systematically attribute it to a simple muscle strain. Dr. Petrover recommends first consulting one's general practitioner to identify the origin of the symptoms, especially when they are severe, unusual, or persistent. In case of common lower back pain, the doctor may advise staying active, practicing adapted exercises, and, if necessary, undergoing rehabilitation with a physiotherapist.

Acute lower back pain needs careful management

Acute lower back pain corresponds to a sudden, sometimes very intense pain that can strongly limit daily movements. Contrary to a common belief, strict bed rest is generally not the correct treatment for acute lower back pain. However, it is not also about forcing oneself to walk despite unbearable pain.

Walking may be safe with proper diagnosis

A disc herniation and/or sciatica does not systematically constitute a contraindication to walking. However, some pains require specific management. Dr. Petrover reminds the importance of consulting to establish a diagnosis before starting unsuitable exercises. The doctor can look for potential neurological signs and determine if additional tests are necessary. An MRI may be indicated in certain situations, but it is not prescribed systematically.