Walking Back Pain
Walking back pain is one of the least common of the activity-related
chronic back pain
syndromes. Actually,
walking for back pain
is generally a widely accepted and generally effective treatment for many patients affected by particular forms of dorsopathy. People who endure walking-related symptoms have a very difficult time functioning normally, since they feel limited in getting around and typically can not live full and productive lives. It is amazing how we take walking for granted until we are unable to do it anymore.
Walking Back Pain Condition
Some structural concerns might be worsened from walking. This is most commonly seen in such
combination back pain
syndromes as
back and leg pain
or
back and hip pain.
Generally, the symptoms might come on strong in the legs or hips when the patient is forced to bear weight
standing
or walking. Pain while moving forward might be related to very specific anatomical conditions and should be referred to a qualified
physical therapist
for diagnosis. It is crucial to understand that many cases of otherwise idiopathic walking back ache are the direct result of
ischemia.
This process is enacted by the subconscious mind, in response to a
psychosomatic symptom imperative.
In most patients, walking becomes an avoided activity, since it somehow factors into the underlying emotional issues causing their symptomology.
Work related
concerns are generally at the top of this list.
Spinal Stenosis Walking Back Pain
Spinal stenosis can cause many patients to suffer not only pain when walking, but also weakness, tingling or numbness in the back, buttocks, legs or feet. This can occur regardless of where the stenosis exists, making positive diagnosis a tricky task indeed. Some patients may have a tendency to fall or stumble while walking, while others have neurological effects, such as foot drop. Many patients actually have no pain at all, but simply can not walk due to a lack of strength or balance. These are all symptoms of spinal canal stenosis. In some cases, these conditions may require drastic treatment, including surgical correction of the factors narrowing the central canal space. However, it is vital to know that stenosis is a normal part of aging and mild to moderate cases are usually not problematic. Symptoms only typically occur if the spinal cord or cauda equina are compressed.
Walking Back Pain Solution
Not walking at all is generally not a good option, since it will drastically limit a patient's activities and self-sufficiency. Many patients become quickly frustrated by a lack of physical ability and aggravate the condition by doing too much, too soon. Instead, try to find comfortable methods of getting around if possible and do not get
stressed
out about your pain. If your doctor can find the exact reason for your pain, attempting to resolve the anatomical issue might be key to your recovery. If no specific structural issue is diagnosed, there is a very good chance that your walking-related back pain may be a mindbody issue. Don’t get too upset at this possibility, since
psychologically induced pain syndromes
are universal in society. The only variables are the severity, location and duration of the symptoms. For this type of pain,
knowledge therapy
is usually the best solution, since it uncovers the root emotional sources of pain and helps the patient recognize and overcome the subconscious reasons responsible for their suffering.
Walking Back Pain Advice
Sometimes,
fear
plays more of a role than walking in generating symptoms. Patients who suffer a
nocebo
reaction from a diagnosis might develop what has been called a
physicophobia.
This is the fear of even the most basic and simple physical activities, such as walking. These patients literally tread on egg shells in order to prevent the pain from returning. Many of these cases are certainly psychosomatic and not linked to a structural
spinal abnormality.
However, some may be purely physical, especially in cases of highly sensitized nerve structures which suffer the effects on any impact activity.
For patients with verifiable reasons for walking related pain, make sure to discuss potentially effective treatment options with your doctor, in great detail, before making up your mind on the best course of action. Remember, if the diagnostic theory turns out to be incorrect, then any therapy attempted will likely disappoint.
Walking Back Pain to Back Pain
6/7/10 Revised 2/3/12
|
