Do you suffer from heel pain? A lot of people have this common complaint. The pain can be incredibly uncomfortable, and if not treated properly, can turn into a chronic affliction that can become more difficult to manage. But did you know that walking backwards can be one of the best ways to decrease and manage your pain?
Heel Pain: How Walking Backward Will Help
It’s true! Walking backwards is a surprisingly effective way of treating heel ache. When you walk forwards, your foot contacts the ground heel first, which can put a great amount of stress on your heel. This is especially true if you put greater pressure on the heel as you walk. Walking backwards helps to relieve this pressure, as your foot will contact the ground from the toes first. This change in the direction of contact can help to decrease heel suffering and discomfort. It’s important to note, however, that walking backwards should not be used in place of other treatments for heel pain. It is best used in conjunction with other treatments such as orthotic devices, stretching, arch supports, or physical therapy.
Things to Keep In Mind before Walking Backwards
When it comes to walking backwards, there are some important safety tips to keep in mind. First and foremost, it is important to decrease your speed to prevent any potential falls or injuries. Make sure you keep your head up and that you can see clearly where you are walking. Finally, be aware of your surroundings and make sure you are walking on a path free of any obstacles. As an added bonus, walking backwards also provides an aerobic workout. Research has shown that walking backwards has a greater metabolic cost than walking forwards at the same speed. As such, it can help to improve your cardiovascular fitness. Overall, walking backwards is an effective way to relieve heel pain and can provide an aerobic workout as well. However, it is important to ensure that your walking technique is safe and that you are walked with other treatments for the pain.