Physical activity can help reduce pain by improving strength, flexibility, and circulation throughout the body. Regular movement stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals, which can elevate mood and reduce the perception of discomfort. Exercise also strengthens muscles that support joints and the spine, helping to stabilize areas prone to pain and reduce strain on bones and ligaments. Additionally, increased blood flow from physical activity brings oxygen and nutrients to tissues, promoting healing and reducing
inflammation that can contribute to chronic pain.
Beyond the physical benefits, exercise also positively affects the nervous system and pain perception. Movement can retrain the brain to interpret pain signals more effectively, decreasing sensitivity over time. It can improve sleep, reduce stress, and enhance overall mental resilience—all factors that influence how the body experiences pain. Even low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or gentle yoga can produce measurable relief, making physical activity a cornerstone of both preventing and managing chronic pain conditions.
