A Simple Summer Walk Could Help Ease Chronic Pain

As the days grow longer and the weather warms, June is the perfect time to reconnect with something simple yet powerful: walking.

If you’re living with chronic low back pain, it may seem counterintuitive to move more. But even short bouts of physical activity can make a noticeable difference. Just 10 to 20 minutes of walking in your neighborhood, a nearby park, or even around your home can gently activate your muscles, improve circulation, and reduce pain sensitivity.

In fact, research shows that brief physical activity can support improvements in flexibility, back strength, and how pain is perceived.

And here’s a bonus—walking outside also supports your mood and mental health, which are both deeply connected to chronic pain.

So this month, give yourself permission to go slow. Step outside. Take a breath. Walk just a little. Your body—and your mind—will thank you.

Lauren DeYoe

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Reiki Master

Owner Reiki PT

Sitges C, Velasco-Roldán O, Crespí J, García-Dopico N, Segur-Ferrer J, González-Roldán AM, Montoya P. Acute Effects of a Brief Physical Exercise Intervention on Somatosensory Perception, Lumbar Strength, and Flexibility in Patients with Nonspecific Chronic Low-Back Pain. J Pain Res. 2021 Feb 18;14:487-500.