Exercise & Chronic Pain

4 reasons why exercise helps relieve chronic pain:

Exercise is probably going to be part of your treatment plan for your chronic back pain. More often than not, resorting to bedrest can make the symptoms of back pain worse.

There are many benefits to exercise, including:

1. Exercise keeps your joints moving.

That’s especially important for patients with chronic pain caused by a form of spinal arthritis.

2. Your muscles will stay strong.

Your spine needs all the help it can get in cushioning your movements and supporting your weight, so you should work on keeping your back and core muscles in good condition. Strong muscles support your body and bones better, and that’s especially important for patients with chronic back pain.

3. Exercise will improve your mental health.

Chronic pain patients can struggle with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues. Staying active can help boost self-esteem and make you feel like you’re doing something to fight your pain.

4. Exercise helps you maintain a healthy weight.

Extra weight can add to your pain, particularly if you have chronic back pain. By making healthy diet choices and staying physically fit, you can maintain an ideal weight.

What Kind of Exercise Should You Do?

Speak with your doctor or a physical therapist about what type of exercise would be good for you. A physical therapist can help you develop a regular exercise plan that you can stick with. Contact our Chandler pain management clinic for more information about physical therapy.