As a GP I recommend one unconventional treatment for joint pain
As a GP, I've become accustomed to encountering elderly patients who are experiencing difficulties with movement and mobility.
And then, twelve months ago, I encountered Amara*, aged sixty-four, who was an unassuming individual.
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Amara came to see me to discuss a review of her blood pressure medication.
I asked her if she'd attempted walking, and she confessed to being too nervous to try, as she was concerned about exacerbating her joint pain and overexerting herself.
Unfortunately, over the past few years, Amara had been severely limited in her activities outside of her flat, largely due to her growing fears, which had ultimately led to her becoming increasingly isolated.
Her anxiety was getting worse and her overall health was starting to decline.
She was extended an invitation to return for another consultation to discuss the hurdles she encountered and spend some quality time conversing with her.
I told her that while her apprehension was understandable, regular, gentle movement through walking, which might initially feel challenging, can, over time, lead to improved joint mobility, strengthened muscles and a reduction in pain and stiffness.
Research has found that incorporating 500 additional daily steps significantly reduces cardiovascular risk, marking a 14% decrease.
It was apparent that Amara was put off by the aspect of running in parkrun, fearing she would draw attention or feel unwelcome.
In order to maintain an atmosphere of inclusivity, our weekly events treat walkers and runners with equal respect and consideration.
I ensured Amara was aware that she could walk the course at her own leisure, taking breaks whenever she desired, and that there was no obligation to maintain a certain speed or complete the entire distance.
Many people think of Parkrun primarily as a running event, but it's evolved to become a venue that warmly welcomes walkers.
There will be a dedicated park watcher at each event, ensuring you'll never be on your own if you want some company.
The average finishing time has risen from 22.17 minutes in 2005 to over half an hour presently, demonstrating an increase in the variety of pacing at the event as an expanding number of individuals participate.
Over 1.25 million people have completed a 5K parkrun route worldwide. Every week, roughly 25,000 people opt to walk rather than run. In Britain, the average number of parkrun walkers is around 5,397 per week.
Emboldened by what she understood to be a situation where many others had chosen the pedestrian option and with a supportive tail walker ensuring she wouldn't be the last to finish, Amara decided to give it a try.
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And you could hardly believe the pace of improvement.
Amara's mobility and pain levels have seen improvement, but this has been accompanied by a notable decline in her mental well-being, as the social aspects of walking with others previously had served to alleviate feelings of isolation and her friendships formed while walking had made her feel more connected.
It is also assumed that Parkrun is only for those who are not runners, or for individuals with ongoing health issues, similar to Amara.
Many who usually complete the course often prefer to take a walk instead.
I've participated in the park walk, which has turned out to be an incredibly enjoyable experience.
Taking my time gave me the chance to have conversations with others, express my gratitude to the volunteers, and provided me with the mental clarity to absorb and appreciate the natural surroundings.
At her next physical health check, Amara had dropped a few pounds, which was also bringing welcome relief to her joint pain.
At present, Amara persists in incorporating walking into her daily schedule, making journeys on foot to the surgery and local shops that she used to travel to by car.
Her journey is a strong reminder that parkrun is more than just a way to stay physically fit - it's about mental toughness, the support of a community, and the importance of taking things at your own speed.
It gave me great pleasure to see that Amara had taken up a healthier way of life and, as a bonus, had discovered the joy of walking whilst connecting with others who shared similar passions.
For many people, such as Amara, participating in parkrun is no longer just a weekly gathering - it transcends into an essential component of their overall well-being. In fact, what is overtly referred to as 'parkrun', it's quite obvious that walking the course is similarly cherished and fulfilling as running it.
It's not about 'winning' the weekly 5k, because if our collective well-being is enhanced, we all benefit.
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