Hello,
I really like to walk & hike (nothing too intense) & wanted to try to get in some relatively short (ie not all day!) low-impact hikes (ie not too treacherous terrain) bc I find that much better on my joints than walking on pavement and for me exercising outside is a major bonus! Wondering what people use for stability, though, to help support posture/core. Iām 36 w minimal damage (thankfully!) but significant pain.
Shoes are the best place to start. Daily stretching is definitely a great thing to do. The key for safe movement is flexibility. But, you must do it regularly. I didn't listen to the Docs in my younger & dumber days & it cost me. My spine started to fuse. You have to avoid that!! Please stay safe and always kind. Peace
A posture brace helps,back support brace helps.Use a cane or .walking stick for stability .Walk slow and try to avoid walking up hills. Good shoes are a must
That's why this site is so great. So much information from so many sources. It's like going to a buffet of knowledge!! Pick through what may help & what may not. I'll be fortunate to be in my daughters pool tomorrow. We have to wait for some delivery men to bring her some furniture. Water is the best for our back problems. The hot tub helps the most. I would like to ask some of you to say a short prayer for me. I had to take a Covid test today. Really don't feel well. While Pamela was at her Doc I walked across the parking lot to my Doc. They said I definitely have a virus but they don't know which one. Kinda scary. Results come in Friday.
I have a perfect spot for hiking by me and found that wearing one of those camelback style backpacks that clip across the front not only helps me stand with better posture (shoulders down and back) but I don't have to carry my water or my keys and I am able to hook my dog to the front clip (she's a good dog and walks gentle, I am usually dragging her away from a scent to keep the walk going!). I have decent running shoes and typically when I am walking I feel little to no pain (sometimes toward the end my hips start pinching), its really standing or sitting for long periods that gets me.
A sacral belt is really helpful for me when I am doing housework, I haven't had to take it on a walk yet since I usually go early in the day when I feel more energetic, the next time I am having a rough day I'll definitely try it rather than just resting because movement is medicine!
I also recommend getting into planks, I've been through PT for this and that is essentially the entire routine they give you is PLANKING ALL DAY! I fell out of the routine of doing them daily for 5 minutes( I worked my way up and spread it out of course) and it was definitely detrimental. I have been working on doing them regularly the last few weeks and it does make a difference to have muscles to stabilize and protect the parts that hurt. Always start slow with anything you're starting and be patient with yourself.
My husband Tom uses a cane when he walks too. He said it helps to take the weight off his hips.