Silence is Golden: Avoiding Conversation During Exercise May Decrease Risk of Spinal Injury

Studies have shown that walking daily provides several health benefits, as it accomplishes improved mental and physical health. However, not controlling breathing correctly with activities like talking can cause improper balance and even lead to spinal injury. With every stride, the body naturally exhales when each foot touches the ground, creating an important breathing cycle. Talking during this physiological sequence interrupts and inhibits proper airflow and support of the spine from the impact of the steps taken.

“It is great to exercise with a partner. Moral support and endurance levels can be higher,” said Chip Stokes, D.C. a chiropractor with the Texas Back Institute. “However, posture support is crucial to exercising correctly and avoiding injury. That means keeping conversation to a minimum.”

To avoid back pain from walking, do a little less talk and a lot more action. Alternatives to discussion include:

- Listen to soothing music that will keep stamina high.

- If walking with a partner, talk only while stretching during the warm-up and cool-down phases of the workout.

- Meditation can help focus and centralize energy to support better breathing techniques.

- Keeping count of the laps and/or mileage during a workout session can keep the mind off of chatter.

- If indoors while exercising, watch television instead of talking to a neighbor.

- Observing surroundings during a walking regimen can assist with mental relaxation, which leads to better circulation.

- When in need of company during a walk, take a pet, rather than a friend: an action that will promote both parties’ health.

Texas Back Institute, Plano, Texas: As one of the nation's largest spine clinics, the Texas Back Institute is the expert in solutions for back pain. Founded in 1978, the Texas Back Institute has always recommended non-surgical treatments because we know they work best to relieve pain in most patients. The professional staff includes board-certified orthopedic surgeons with spine fellowship training, general surgeons, general medicine physicians, internists, chiropractors, physiatrists, pain specialists, exercise physiologists and a team of physical and occupational therapists. From non-operative spine care to surgery, the Texas Back Institute offers chiropractic care, diagnostic procedures, fitness services, pain management, patient education, physical therapy, research and return-to-work programs including work conditioning and work hardening. To learn more about the Texas Back Institute and to obtain free updates and helpful back tips, go to www.texasback.com or call 1-800-247-BACK. Texas Back Institute's with offices in Denton, Fort Worth, Garland, Greenville, Hurst, Midland, Plano, TX and Phoenix, AZ. For additional information, visit the Texas Back Institute website at www.texasback.com

MEDIA CONTACT
For more information, contact Meredith Falke, (214) 891-7795 meredith_falke@richards.com

Consumer phone number: 1-800-247-BACK