Running
and a healthy back may seem like an unlikely pair. The high impact intensity of
pounding the hard pavement feels like it could really do a number on your
spine, causing disc and vertebrae misalignment, and generally making your back
feel out of whack.
But
new research shows the opposite may be true. Running could actually be good for
back health.
A
recent study published in the journal Scientific
Reports evaluated the link between disc health and exercise/movement. They
found that people who run or walk (at a brisk pace) regularly have healthier
discs in their backs than those who do not exercise at all.
Discs
in between the vertebrae of the spine are filled with fluid that absorbs
pressure during movement. The more movement your body experiences, the more
that fluid builds up and creates a comfortable cushion between vertebrae
preventing back pain and
tightness. Less movement means less fluid and flatter, deflated discs.
The
study examined 79 men and women and assigned them to the following groups:
long-distance runners, moderate runners, and those who rarely ran or exercised
at all. Participants’ spines were scanned with a specialized MRI system that
measured the size and liquidity of each disc.
Here’s
what they found:
- Runners’ discs were larger and full of more fluid than those who did not run or exercise.
- There was no difference in disc size between the long-distance and moderate runners.
- Walking at a brisk pace also contributed to more fluid-filled discs.
The
results are encouraging for those who regularly run or walk as they may be at
less risk for constant back pain as they grow older. The study cautions though
that people should not take up running just in an attempt to treat an already
existing back condition.
If
you experience any frequent back pain, please contact us for an appointment with
one of our specialists.
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