AUSTRALIA, June 24: A groundbreaking study suggests that incorporating regular walks into your routine could significantly reduce the risk of recurring low back pain, potentially revolutionizing preventive care for millions worldwide.

Published in The Lancet, the first-of-its-kind research sheds light on the effectiveness of walking as a preventive measure against one of the most prevalent health issues globally. Mark Hancock, the senior author of the study and a professor of physiotherapy at Macquarie University in Australia, emphasizes that even moderate walking, done three times a week, can yield substantial benefits.

The study, involving 701 adults who recently experienced low back pain, revealed promising results. Participants who engaged in a walking regimen, combined with education sessions led by physiotherapists, experienced significantly longer periods of being pain-free compared to those who received no specific intervention. Remarkably, the risk of recurrence requiring medical attention was nearly halved in the intervention group.

According to Hancock, the key lies in gradually increasing walking duration and frequency. Participants who walked three to five times a week, averaging 130 minutes per week, enjoyed prolonged relief from back pain and improved overall quality of life. Importantly, the time off work due to back pain was also reduced by almost half among those who adhered to the walking program.

While the exact mechanisms behind walking's effectiveness in preventing back pain remain unclear, experts suggest a combination of factors, including gentle movements that strengthen spinal structures and muscles, stress relief, and the release of endorphins. Moreover, walking offers numerous additional health benefits, such as cardiovascular health and improved mental well-being.

Rory Fagan, who joined the trial seeking relief from a rugby-related back injury, attests to the transformative power of walking. Despite experiencing just one episode of debilitating pain in three years, Fagan underscores the importance of staying active, even during flare-ups.

The study's findings have garnered widespread acclaim from healthcare professionals. Prof Kamila Hawthorne, chair of the Royal College of GPs in the UK, underscores the importance of incorporating these results into clinical guidance. Dr Athalie Redwood-Brown, a senior lecturer in physical activity and health at Nottingham Trent University, believes the study offers a scalable solution that could benefit millions, potentially transforming preventive care approaches.