WebMD reports that low back pain is a global problem, with estimates suggesting there are more than a half-billion cases worldwide. Although there are various causes of back pain, it often results from a traumatic event. 

While back pain is a very individual condition, there may be one thing that can help most everyone: Walking. 

Researchers in Australia report that a daily walk might be all that it takes to reduce the likelihood that back pain returns. Findings from a newly published study showed that walking just 80 to 130 minutes a week – just 11 to 18 minutes a day – plus expert-provided pain education might be a low-cost, easy solution

Back pain can come from a lot of different sources, said Alice Chen, MD, physiatrist at HSS. “It can be related to muscle spasm, joint irritations in the back, ligaments, irritation of the back." 

For many people, an orthopedic surgeon is the first person that comes to mind when lower back pain strikes. But Dr. Chen noted that it’s important to consider someone who specializes in physical medicine rehabilitation. 

Read the full article at webmd.com.