[On the move-Prevention of chronic pain with physical activity and movement]
Axel Schäfer1, Marjan Laekeman2,3, Martina Egan Moog4,5
1Studiengänge Ergotherapie, Logopädie und Physiotherapie, Fakultät Soziale Arbeit und Gesundheit, Hochschule für Angewandte Wissenschaft und Kunst (HAWK) Hildesheim, Goschentor 1, 31134, Hildesheim, Deutschland. axel.schaefer@hawk.de.
Background:
Sufficient physical activity and exercise shows a variety of health-promoting positive effects. In the context of pain therapy, promotion of physical activity could be an important contribution to primary, secondary and tertiary prevention of chronic pain.
Objectives:
The aim is to investigate the relationship between physical activity and chronic pain, the preventive effect of physical activity on pain and the factors to successfully promote physical activity in people with chronic pain.
Methods:
For this narrative review databases of the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE (via PubMed) and the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) were searched for reviews and studies with the keywords chronic pain, physical activity, movement, exercise and prevention.
Results:
A total of 10 reviews, 10 clinical studies and 4 surveys were included and summarized.
Conclusion:
Although the evidence base on this topic is still insufficient, positive effects of physical activity on the prevention of chronic pain could be demonstrated. Interventions for people with chronic pain that sustainably increase physical activity should take into account individual resources, address barriers such as maladaptive beliefs, and create positive movement experiences.
Related Concept Videos
Analgesia and Pain Management
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques III
The Role of Exercise in Stress Management
Regular physical activity is essential for reducing stress and promoting cardiovascular health. Exercise strengthens the heart, enhances blood flow, keeps blood vessels flexible, and helps lower blood pressure, all of which reduce the body's stress response. Research shows that adults who exercise regularly have nearly half the...
Lifestyle Factors and Health
Benefits of Physical Activity
Physical activity, whether through structured exercise or casual activities like walking, biking, or dancing, is a cornerstone of a...
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-V: Management
Smoking Cessation
Peripheral Artery Disease III: Interprofessional Care
Nociception


