If you wish to learn more about the RUN4LIGHTHOUSE Event Level Osteopathy will be participating in read below!
Have you ever heard that walking is controlled falling? I had to assure my wife of this when my little toddler was first taking her timid strides many months ago. “It’s ok we just get back up again!” She would say.
Now there is more to walking or better termed gait than one can imagine. We often hear of the benefits in walking but in fact it is a very valuable tool of analysis in measuring one’s general health.
The gait cycle refers to the walking or running pattern of an individual. It is the sequence of movements that occur from one foot's initial contact with the ground to the next contact of the same foot. The gait cycle consists of two phases: the stance phase and the swing phase.
During the stance phase, one foot is in contact with the ground. This phase can be further divided into initial contact, loading response, midstance, terminal stance, and pre-swing. The stance phase provides stability and support as the body weight is transferred from one leg to the other.
During the swing phase, the foot is off the ground and moving forward. This phase can be divided into initial swing, midswing, and terminal swing. The swing phase allows for forward movement and prepares the leg for the next stance phase.
Measuring an individual's gait cycle can provide valuable information about their health and biomechanics. It can help identify abnormalities or asymmetries in their walking or running pattern, which may indicate underlying musculoskeletal or neurological issues. Gait analysis is commonly used in sports medicine, physical therapy, and rehabilitation to assess and improve an individual's movement patterns and overall function.
Various techniques are used to measure the gait cycle. These measurements can provide insights into factors such as step length, stride length, cadence, ground reaction forces, joint angles, and timing of different gait events. By analyzing these parameters, healthcare professionals can assess an individual's gait quality, identify any deviations from normal patterns, and develop appropriate interventions to improve their overall health and mobility.
By assessing our bodies most common pattens of movement we can better tell where the root of your concerns hide. This is actually one reason at Level Osteopathy we always come to greet you in the lobby and usher you towards the room “down and to the left”. Our assessment begins there and then.
Now let’s talk more about the benefits in walking and gait!
Having a good gait cycle, or a healthy walking or running pattern, is important for several reasons:
1. Efficient Movement: A good gait cycle allows for efficient movement, minimizing energy expenditure and reducing the risk of fatigue. It ensures that the body's kinetic energy is effectively transferred from one step to the next, allowing for smooth and effortless locomotion.
2. Balance and Stability: A proper gait cycle promotes balance and stability during walking or running. It involves coordinated movements of the legs, hips, and trunk, allowing for optimal weight distribution and control of body movements. This helps prevent falls and injuries, especially in older adults or individuals with balance issues.
3. Joint Health: A healthy gait cycle helps maintain the health and function of the joints involved in walking or running, such as the hips, knees, and ankles. It ensures that these joints are properly aligned and subjected to appropriate forces, reducing the risk of joint degeneration, pain, and overuse injuries.
4. Muscle Function: A good gait cycle allows for proper activation and coordination of the muscles involved in walking or running. It ensures that the muscles are working synergistically to support body weight, propel forward movement, and absorb shock. This helps prevent muscle imbalances, weakness, and inefficient movement patterns.
5. Overall Health and Well-being: A well-functioning gait cycle is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. Regular walking or running with a good gait cycle can improve cardiovascular fitness, strengthen muscles, enhance bone density, and promote mental well-being. It also supports activities of daily living and enables participation in sports, recreational activities, and social interactions.
Going for a walk is a simple yet highly beneficial activity for your health and well-being. Here are five short reasons why walking is healthy:
1. Physical Fitness: Walking is a low-impact aerobic exercise that gets your heart rate up, improves cardiovascular fitness, and strengthens your muscles. It helps burn calories, maintain a healthy weight, and reduce the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes.
2. Mental Health: Walking has a positive impact on mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. It promotes the release of endorphins, which are natural mood boosters, and improves overall cognitive function and brain health.
3. Joint Health: Walking is a weight-bearing exercise that helps strengthen the bones and joints, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and improving joint mobility. It also promotes the production of synovial fluid, which lubricates the joints and reduces joint pain.
4. Improved Sleep: Regular walking can improve the quality and duration of your sleep. It helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle, reduces insomnia, and promotes deeper sleep, leading to better overall sleep patterns and increased daytime energy.
5. Social Connection: Walking provides an opportunity to connect with others. Whether you walk with friends, family, or join a walking group, it can enhance social interactions and strengthen relationships. Social connection is vital for mental well-being and can reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Now with all this talk about walk and run pattens let me share about…
RUN4LIGHTHOUSE 2024!
Once again we will be participating at The Charity For Grieving Children & Families this year in their 1K or 5K Runs (walking is absolutely acceptable!)
To donate once again this year or participate please look at the links below!
Here is more about this wonderful Charity and their largest event!
“Gather your family, friends, neighbours, and colleagues to walk or run our scenic 1K or 5K route in support of grieving children and youth in our communities.
Join us and together we can continue to spread love and positivity in their lives. Together we can make a real impact and brighten their days. Let's shine a light on children's grief and show them that they are not alone.
Every dollar raised will go directly to fund our grief support groups to ensure our services remain FREE for families who need them.
This annual event takes place on Saturday May 25, 2024 at St. Volodymyr Cultural Centre in Oakville. Can't make it? No problem...you can also register to participate virtually at the location of your choice or donate to support this worthy cause.”
Register by April 28th to take advantage of the Early Bird Rate!
Each year, Lighthouse supports over 300 children, youth, and their families as they navigate their grief after the life-altering loss of a parent or sibling. Your event registration or donation will fund our grief support groups to ensure there is no cost to families who need them.
Lighthouse does not receive government funding, so we rely on fundraising events and the generosity of our communities to continuing offering our services free of charge to those that need them.
If you are requiring an appointment with Stefan at Level Osteopathy please feel free to use the booking link below!
Until Next Months Newsletter!
Cheers,
Stefan & Family