May is National Walking Month: Keep Moving, Stay Injury Free
Whether you are a stroller, a seasoned hiker or a walk to worker, injuries can still happen. Walking is one of the most accessible and beneficial forms of exercise out there, but like any physical activity, it’s not without its risks. That’s why May is the perfect time to celebrate the power of walking and learn how to do it well; safely and pain free.
As osteopaths, we often see patients who are surprised to find themselves with aches and pains from something as simple as walking. But when the body’s biomechanics are slightly off, even a short daily walk can lead to discomfort in the feet, knees, hips, or lower back.
The Benefits of Walking
Walking boosts cardiovascular health, improves mood and mental clarity, and supports joint mobility and bone strength. It’s low impact and doesn’t require any fancy equipment, just a decent pair of shoes and a willingness to get moving. With walking groups such as the Wincanton Balsam Centre more info here and Wincanton walking group more info here, there are plenty of ways to get out and about locally.
Regular walking can also:
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Improve sleep
- Strengthen muscles and improve balance
- Support recovery from injury
But to get the most from walking, it’s important that your body is functioning well, and that’s where osteopathy can play a supportive role.
Common Walking-Related Issues
You might not think of walking as a cause of injury, but we regularly treat people for issues like:
- Plantar fasciitis (heel and foot pain)
- Knee pain
- Hip pain, often from poor gait patterns
- Low back discomfort, especially if posture or core engagement is lacking
- Shin splints, particularly when increasing walking speed or distance
Sometimes these pains come from doing too much too soon, or walking on hard or uneven surfaces. Other times, they’re the result of underlying restrictions or imbalances in the body that affect how you move.
How Osteopathy Can Help
Osteopathy focuses on restoring balance and movement to the body. If you’re experiencing pain during or after walking, we can assess how your joints and muscles are functioning and help identify what might be causing the discomfort.
Treatment may include:
- Gentle joint mobilisation and soft tissue techniques
- Addressing restrictions in the ankles, hips or spine
- Advice on posture and walking technique
- Tailored stretching and strengthening exercises
We’ll also look at factors like footwear, walking surfaces, and how your overall posture and gait might be contributing to strain.
Make the Most of May
National Walking Month is a great time to get outside, breathe fresh air, and move your body, whether it’s a daily stroll around the block or a weekend walk in the countryside. If you’ve been experiencing any pain or stiffness that’s stopping you from enjoying your walks, it might be time for a check-in with your osteopath.
👉 Book an appointment through my website and let us help you walk stronger, move better, and enjoy every step this May Book now
