Walking is one of the best forms of exercise for those following a weight loss plan. It’s an easy exercise for beginners, you can do it almost anywhere or any time, and you only need a sturdy pair of shoes to get started. But just because it’s easy doesn’t mean you can’t injure yourself!

Sometimes potential injuries can be prevented if you pain attention to the warning signs. If you feel any of these pains while walking, stop and get checked out by a physician before continuing your exercise regimen. It’s better to be safe than sorry, and to prevent injuries that could put your weight loss plan on hold for weeks or more.

• Shin pain
• Cramping or swelling in a calf
• Swollen, tender front of your knee
• Heel pain
• Pins-and-needles sensation, from back of leg to foot
• Lower back pain

Most of these symptoms can represent overuse injuries, meaning you just did a little too much. Often a few days of rest will be ordered, to allow strained muscles, bones, or ligaments to heal.

Other times, a seemingly mild symptom can represent a more serious sign of something wrong. Pain or swelling in a calf muscle, for example, can occasionally indicate deep vein thrombosis. This is a blood clot in a vein that could potentially dislodge and travel to your lungs. So, even though you might not be eager to put off your exercise plans and consult your physician, paying attention to your body is critical to protecting yourself.

Once you receive the green light from your doctor, you can ease back into your walking routine. As always, only push yourself to a comfortable limit. You should feel a bit tired, but not exhausted, after workouts.

For more advice on beginning an exercise routine or weight loss plan, call us to schedule an appointment. We can pre-screen you for underlying conditions, and help you put together a program that is safe and effective for your individual needs.