Take 2 exercises and call me in the morning
By Bev Bennett CTW FEATURES
seems very inviting. However, contrary to a person’s inclination, physical
A
activity may be just what is needed. Being active works on the entire body – from the brain to the joints – to alleviate pain.
People may wonder what the connection is between
exercise and pain relief. Is it the hormones the body releases? The muscle that’s building? Improved blood flow? Simply the distraction from pain?
It’s all the above, according to John Pagliano, a sports
podiatrist based in Long Beach, Calif., and fellow at the American College of Sports Medicine.
When you exercise, your body releases endorphins,
which block the transmission of pain impulses to the brain, according to Dr. A. Lynn Millar, professor of physical therapy at Winston-Salem State University, N.C.
The effect is similar to that of morphine – with impor- 46 Health Connections
rthritis, chronic backaches and similar condi- tions don’t encourage exercise. When it’s pain- ful to move, a comfortable bed or plush sofa
tant differences. “It doesn’t lead to addiction, but it feels good, and it’s
free,” says Pagliano. Exercise also increases blood flow to the joints. The
improved circulation may help healing in areas that are subject to pain.
Exercise increases blood flow to the muscles and car-
ries away waste products, such as lactic acid, adds Dr. Pagliano. That increased blood flow helps people feel better, he says.
Physical activity also may reduce other symptoms of
chronic disease that can have an impact on a person’s pain level.
“People who exercise have decreased inflammatory
markers [substances in the body that suggest health risks],” Millar says.
And, although you’re probably not trying out for the
NFL anytime soon, you’ll want to exercise to maintain or build muscle.
If muscles atrophy pain may increase, Millar says. January/February 2012
In a world of hurt, exercise could be the best form of pain relief
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