Answer:

Sacroiliac joint pain can cause discomfort, making individuals hesitant to exercise. This can decrease muscle strength and endurance, increasing pressure on the joints. Conversely, regular exercise at an appropriate intensity helps reduce pain and supports effective treatment. Walking is a suitable exercise for individuals with sacroiliac joint pain due to its numerous benefits.

Enhanced joint flexibility and mobility: Walking helps stretch and strengthen weakened muscles in the lower spine, thighs, and pelvis, providing additional support to the inflamed joints. Combining walking with physical therapy exercises and upper body strengthening routines is recommended for overall balance.

Reduced inflammation and swelling: Walking increases blood flow and nutrient delivery to the soft tissues in the back, accelerating recovery and reducing stiffness that causes back pain. Increased blood flow to the joints also helps decrease inflammation, soothe sensitive nerves, and effectively alleviate pain.

Improved mental well-being: Regular exercise is an effective way to relieve stress, improve mental health, and reduce anxiety and depression associated with chronic pain.

Enhanced overall health: In addition to improving sacroiliac joint pain, physical activities like walking offer various other health benefits, such as improved cardiovascular health and immune function.

Doctor Hai explains health check results to a patient. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

If pain intensifies while walking, or if you experience fever, weakness, tingling sensations in the legs, incontinence, or other unusual symptoms, stop immediately and seek medical attention.

Some individuals may experience difficulty moving or worsened symptoms after walking. Therefore, consult your doctor to determine a walking plan (stride length, speed, duration) suitable for your condition (level of inflammation and pain). Schedule follow-up appointments and adhere to your doctor's prescribed treatment.

Pham Hoang Hai, MSc, MD, Specialist Level I

Department of Rheumatology

Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM