Who doesn’t love walking their dog, especially in this lovely spell of warm weather we’re having. You can enjoy numerous health and social benefits, including, improved cardiovascular fitness, lower blood pressure, stronger muscles, and stress and anxiety relief, and just getting out in the fresh air, which in itself is a tonic.

Research studies international studies have found that pets may offer health benefits to their owners, some are:

Involvement with animals can be effective at reducing stress as hypnosis.
Contact with a pet can have the physiological benefits like stress relief and reduction of high blood pressure.
The companionship and love offered by pets is known to have mental health benefits for owners, and increased self-esteem.

One of the major culprits for injuries, are the dogs reactions! I have a patient who had been injury was caused by a dog taking off after a cat and damaging their owner’s shoulder.

The sudden jerk of the lead almost pulled the person resulting in instant pain in her shoulder. She went home and took some anti-inflammatories, but when it had not improved in 3 days, and her arm felt really weak, she got in contract for advice.

Being able to use only one arm is can cause major difficulties when, driving, dressing, washing hair, unloading the dishwasher all of which can be difficult one-handed.

Dog walking can be a full body exercise. Locomotion comes from the legs, the arms swing, and the body’s core works to stabilize you while moving.

The primary muscles involved in walking are:

The calf muscles. These are in constant use when you take a step.
The quadriceps. One of the body’s biggest muscles; they move the legs forward.
The hamstrings. These move the legs backward.
The buttock muscles. The powerhouse of the body, their job is to complete the backward movement of the step.
When these muscles are weak, they are not able to perform their primary function, during walking.
The abdominal muscles. Support the torso and stabilize the pelvis.
The back muscles. they work to maintain posture and keep the body upright.

The shoulders are exercised as the arms swing back and forth.

To get the full benefit from walking the dog, prepare for the walk, as you would prepare for any exercise, with stretches and the right equipment.

stretching before you start - the front and back of your legs, your back and your arms

At Therapi Tylino, I see clients with muscle injuries relating to dog walking. They range from neck, shoulder, back, thigh, calf or ankles. It is not just Therapists who see dog walking injuries, A&E’s see more serious dog walking related injuries such as dislocated joints, broken bones and head injuries

Once you are used to walking the dog, you will have a happy willing, excited exercise partner. A good sign they are ready to go walking they will wag their tail and barks when they sees their lead.

Walking the dog can keep unwanted pounds off, extend your life, and help you stay healthy and happy—the same is true for your furry friend. Keep enjoy!

If you do have any aches and pains after a dog walking incident then make sure it is examined. Book an appointment at Therapi Tylino Massage and we will do our best to help you. If you are not sure if massage is right for you then book a postal alignment appointment and we can discuss your problem before you commit to treatment.

Please contact Roger on 07527254375 or info@therapitylino.co.uk.

Dog Walking