Spine and Movement: What Is The Relationship Between Them?

Spring is on the way! I bet you cannot wait to have a lovely walk with nice weather!

Have you ever wondered what brings about body movements? A very common answer is ‘my legs’. That is true, but if we take a step back and think what causes our legs to walk? The answer is our brain and nervous system.

The brain tells us ‘what to do’. Nervous system is a ‘messenger’, it brings signals from brain to different parts so we can function properly. In other words, nervous system plays a role in everything you do, as simple as walking, running or holding a cup of tea.

Have you ever had pain when you struggle to simply walk, or when getting up from your chair or bed? Pain is a warning signal which is communicated via your nervous system, which could be suggesting that something is not right. And this could be coming from your spine, joint, muscles, ligament, tendons or other areas.

Movement is important because it brings benefit to our body, also help manage and potentially prevent the formation of arthritis.

Research suggests that walking helps boost our immune system. Studies have shown if you walk at least 20 minutes a day for at least 5 days a week helps reduce 43% chance of taking sick leave compared to those who walk less.

”I have arthritis and it’s painful to walk, should I still exercise?” This is one of the most common question I get as a chiropractor. Degeneration is a natural process, this is unavoidable, but the key is how do we degenerate gracefully. Dr Thomas Frieden, former director of the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention suggested ‘walking is the closest thing we have as a wonder drug’.

Research also shows walking helps ease arthritis related joint pain. Movement helps strengthening muscles, tendons and ligaments around joints. This helps to take off pressure off from our joint and makes us feel better.

For those who want to prevent having arthritis, research also suggested that walking 5-6 miles a week can prevent arthritis from forming at the first place.

‘Motion is lotion.’ Movement helps joint to stay healthy. Our joints are surrounded by synovial membrane and fluid. The fluid acts like oil for engine, it lubricates our joints and help them to stay nice and smooth.

If you are struggling with movements in general due to pain or stiffness, this is a warning signal and you should never ignore it. If you are struggling, have you considered asking for help?

If there is anything myself or the team can assist with, please do ask.

With love,

Joyce