The Latest Medical News

A Summary of The Latest Medical News: **Walking More Than 100 Minutes Daily Reduces Chronic Back Pain Risk** A new study reveals that adults who walk **more than 100 minutes per day** have a **23% lower risk of developing chronic low back pain** compared to those who walk less than 78 minutes per day[1][2][4]. **Study Details and Participants** The research, led by the team at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, analyzed data from over **11,000 adults** in Norway, with an average age of 55. None of the participants had chronic back pain at the start. Their walking habits and intensity were tracked using activity monitors over a week, with a follow-up period of several years to track outcomes[1][3][4]. **Dose-Response Relationship: The More You Walk, the Greater the Benefit** Results showed a **dose-dependent relationship** — the **more someone walked**, the **lower their risk for chronic back pain**, up to about 100 minutes per day. Benefits leveled off beyond this point, but even small increases in daily walking time were linked to reduced risk[1][2][4]. People walking between **78 and 100 minutes per day** had moderately reduced risk, but those walking over 100 minutes saw the most significant decline[2][4]. **Intensity vs. Volume: Time Matters Most** While **walking intensity** (how briskly you walk) also contributed to lowering risk, the **total time spent walking** was the stronger predictor. Power walking was beneficial, but ambling for longer periods had even more pronounced effects[2][4]. **Chronic Back Pain: A Widespread Issue** Chronic low back pain is a leading cause of disability globally and is especially common among older adults. Traditional advice has encouraged physical activity, but this new study pinpoints a specific, measurable benefit from walking[3][4]. **Practical Takeaways for Daily Life** Simply **adding more walking to your day**—aiming for at least 100 minutes—could be a practical, accessible way to protect against chronic back pain. Even if reaching 100 minutes isn’t feasible right away, **any increase in daily walking time can help** lower your risk[1][2][4]. **Limitations of the Study** The study relied on measuring walking habits at just one point in time and used self-reported pain outcomes. As an observational study, it cannot prove cause and effect, but it adds to a growing body of evidence that regular walking offers substantial health benefits[2]. **Walking: An Easy Prescription for Back Health** With chronic back pain affecting millions, this research supports a simple approach: **walk more, and walk regularly**. Policies and habits that encourage walking could make a difference in public health[4]. Help with your insurance? https://tally.so/r/n012P9