Chronic pain can be challenging to manage, especially when it also impairs mobility. Exercise has been shown to alleviate specific symptoms of chronic pain. Prolonged periods of rest have been shown to cause increased levels of chronic pain in patients, making exercise recommended for some cases of chronic pain. At Macomb Pain Management, we strive to empower our patients with the tools and knowledge they need to manage their pain symptoms. Let’s consider what you need to know about exercise and chronic pain.
The Role of Movement in Chronic Pain Management
While chronic pain can make working out challenging, staying inactive for long periods has been shown to worsen the symptoms of chronic pain. This is because muscle stiffness, joint immobility, and fatigue all increase during long periods of inactivity. Conversely, exercise can fight chronic pain by releasing endorphins, promoting blood flow, and reducing inflammation. For chronic pain patients, the proper exercise program can be an effective tool in a pain management plan. While it is key to always speak with your doctor before beginning a new exercise regimen, some exercises generally work well for patients with chronic pain. Let’s explore some low-impact exercises to incorporate into your pain management plan.
Best Low-Impact Exercises for Chronic Pain Relief
Low-impact exercises are movements that are easy on the body’s joints and less likely to aggravate symptoms of a chronic pain causing disease or condition. Walking, for example, is a low-impact exercise that is easy on the joints and can improve your circulation and joint mobility. Swimming is an excellent low-impact exercise that reduces joint stress while giving you a full-body workout. Yoga is another fantastic option as it can improve flexibility and mobility while calming the nervous system. It is essential to consult with your doctor before beginning any new exercise program and choose exercises that feel safe and sustainable.
Tips for Starting and Maintaining an Exercise Routine
When starting a new exercise program, it is essential to start slowly and gradually build up to sustain your exercise. You should also listen to your body. Mild soreness after working out is normal; sharp and sudden pains are not. Always use warm-up exercises and stretch before working out to avoid injuring yourself during an exercise. Working alongside a physical therapist or pain specialist to build an exercise plan that suits your needs can be incredibly beneficial, as they can help you choose the right exercises.
Maintaining an Exercise Plan as Part of Your Chronic Pain Treatment
Working out to alleviate chronic pain is all about consistency. While starting an intense workout regimen immediately may be tempting, this is often unsustainable and can lead to injury or burnout. Set realistic goals for yourself and allow proper rest periods between your workout sessions. Working out with chronic pain is all about alleviating your pain symptoms and should not lead to increased levels of pain and discomfort. Contact us today to learn more about how Macomb Pain Management can help you build an exercise plan.
Contact Macomb Pain Management for Help Managing Your Chronic Pain With Exercise
To learn more about how Macomb Pain Management can help you build an exercise plan to fight chronic pain, contact us at (248) 844-8281. We can recommend specific exercises and additional treatment options to incorporate into a pain management plan that adequately addresses your condition.
