Using Movement to Manage Persistent Pain
Movement is an essential, research-backed tool for managing chronic pain. It effectively addresses both the physical and mental aspects of pain, empowering individuals to regain control over their health and daily activities.
Why Movement is Effective
- Boosts Mood
- Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine, alleviating anxiety and depression that often accompany chronic pain.
- Reduces Pain Sensitivity
- Engaging in regular movement trains the brain to process pain signals more effectively, decreasing overall pain intensity.
- Improves Sleep Quality
- Exercise enhances deep, restorative sleep by reducing stress and minimizing pain-related interruptions.
- Increases Stress Resistance
- Physical activity lowers cortisol levels, diminishing the negative impact of stress on chronic pain.
- Enhances Functionality
- Strengthening muscles and improving joint stability make everyday tasks more manageable and less painful.
- Builds Activity Tolerance
- Gradual, consistent movement helps break the cycle of overexertion and inactivity, increasing stamina.
- Supports Recovery
- Increased circulation delivers oxygen and nutrients to tissues, aiding healing and reducing inflammation.
Types of Movement That Help
- Strength Training
- Builds stronger muscles to relieve joint strain and improve overall posture.
- Stretching
- Reduces muscle tension, enhances flexibility, and prevents stiffness.
- Aerobic Exercise
- Boosts cardiovascular health and replenishes energy often depleted by chronic pain.
- Low-Impact Activities
- Gentle exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling are easy on the joints and promote fitness.
- Mindful Movement
- Practices like yoga or Tai Chi combine physical activity with mindfulness, reducing stress and enhancing body awareness.
- Graded Activity
- Gradual increases in activity levels rebuild strength and reduce fear of movement (kinesiophobia).
- Routine Consistency
- Regular movement combats inflammation and fosters long-term pain management.
Key Benefits of Movement
- Improved Physical Function
- Facilitates independent living and simplifies daily activities.
- Better Mental Health
- Reduces stress, anxiety, and feelings of helplessness, promoting a positive outlook.
- Higher Energy Levels
- Counters fatigue commonly associated with chronic pain.
- Enhanced Quality of Life
- Improves overall well-being and fosters a sense of control and empowerment.
Incorporating movement into daily routines can break the persistent pain cycle, offering lasting improvements in physical ability and emotional resilience.
Our Hills Integrated Pain Team, based in Mount Barker, Adelaide are here to help.
Just make contact, and we can explain how our program can help.
