The power of movement when you’re in pain

Did you know, dogs could have back pain?
Yes, it’s true. They develop spinal degeneration, just like people.

I’m having a personal experience with it, as my dog Cami got diagnosed with spinal spondylosis. It’s a broad term which basically means spinal osteoarthritis, the age-related wear and tear of the spinal column.

We’ve been having our ups and downs as some days she feels better, then the next day she seems to take a step back. But I’m hopeful and celebrating the little wins, just like her short little bark at the Amazon delivery guy this afternoon. I haven’t heard my dog bark in a month! It was fabulous, music to my ears, lol!

My clients know Cami very well and they often ask me, if I could develop some exercises for her to help her with her pain. Thankfully, Cami naturally knows what’s good for her and she does not need my guidance.She often gets up to stretch and does the most beautiful Cat and Cow. I love watching her round and lengthen her spine and she does it with so much joy! Cat and Cow is one of my favorite exercises too, and I use it with all my clients as a spine warm up exercise.

I hope you get my point with this story! I want you to realize, how important movement is in our lives. Not only when you’re healthy, but also when you’re dealing with an injury or chronic condition. Cami is the living example of the healing power of movement! Movement creates synovial fluid in the joints, which is nature’s WD-40. It lubricates and nourishes your joints and reduces friction of bones during movement.

If you’re shying away from movement because you’re in pain and you’re waiting for the day when your pain goes away…… I want you to know, your body is going to heal so much faster if you move! You just need to do it safely, so your choice of movement is not counter-productive.