Being in a state of constant chronic pain could have negative impacts on one’s sleep, work, exercise and regular activities. Although drugs and other kinds of therapy could be useful for treating one’s pain, pain management usually involves more than that to improve one’s functionality and self-assurance.
Chronic Pain Management using exercise physiology includes increasing physical capacity, coping with pain and performing daily activities. An expert exercise physiologist could develop a special program according to an individual’s needs.
In a strength clinic, all people, irrespective of their age and level of physical activity, could improve mobility and strength through exercise.
Beyond General Exercise: How Exercise Physiology Supports Pain Management
In exercise physiology, exercise that is based on evidence helps in improving physical function and achieving better health outcomes. In people who suffer from persistent pain, however, the aims of exercise go beyond physical fitness.
- Increased strength and mobility through exercises.
- Greater tolerance to activity through gradual progressions of activity.
- Gaining confidence in safe movement to overcome fear of activity.
- Individualised exercise progressions based on symptoms, healing, and goals.
Effective chronic pain rehabilitation emphasises developing the ability to participate in activities along with the management of symptoms.
Building a Personalised Exercise Plan
Since different individuals are affected by chronic pain in their own ways, it would be necessary to have the program customised rather than being standardised.
A few things that an exercise physiologist can take into account include:
- Existing capabilities: These can be strength, mobility, stability and exercise tolerance.
- Pain triggers: This is to determine which exercises may bring about pain in the patient.
- Goals: These could be going back to gardening, work or sporting activities.
For instance, someone with knee pain and back pain can start with walking sessions and slowly increase time spent.
This is an approach used in exercise physiology for chronic pain and focuses on sustainability.
Practical Strategies for Managing Persistent Pain
Exercise is only one element of the overall management strategy. Lifestyle factors may also have an impact on effective symptom management.
Management of chronic pain techniques which can be useful include:
- Pacing activities: Split up hard tasks into smaller segments, instead of alternating between being hyperactive and inactive.
- Physical activity consistency: The use of walking or physiotherapy may help maintain physical activity.
- Progress monitoring: Monitor any functional improvement, as well as any improvements in sleep and exercise tolerance.
- Rest intervals: Balance exercise and rest properly to manage activity.
- Consultation with experts: Changing symptoms will need to be assessed by other experts.
The goal is to set up a pattern that is sustainable long term, even if changes occur.
Beyond Pain Levels: Measuring Progress in Your Chronic Pain Journey
When dealing with chronic pain, it is tempting to measure progress based on whether “it hurts less.” But your pain may vary even as your level of function and confidence increases. Other measures may give you a better sense of your recovery.
Below are a few indications that your condition is improving.
- Increased capability to do daily activities: Longer distance walking, climbing stairs, cooking food or any other activities done at home with minimal number of breaks.
- Improved stamina and strength: Ability to do exercise in proper form or ability to bear physical activities.
- Higher confidence in your movements: Resuming the activities that were difficult for you before despite the pain.
- Faster recovery: Your symptoms become predictable after exercises or daily activities.
- Better independence: You have to take fewer breaks or less help to perform the tasks.
If, for example, one walks for a longer distance without taking any breaks despite feeling some pain, then endurance and independence have increased.
An exercise physiologist may assist with establishing goals, measuring changes and adjusting one’s program. Recording one’s activity, progress and symptoms will also help. Evaluate recovery in terms of one’s ability to do things rather than pain level only.
Can WorkCover or NDIS Support Exercise Rehabilitation?
Funding may assist eligible people to avail themselves of the rehabilitation service, subject to their needs and approved service.
- WorkCover Compensation: Rehabilitation services that have been approved might be used to recover from an injury at work and help individuals reach their functional goals.
- NDIS Physiotherapy: Suitable NDIS participants might gain access to physiotherapy or exercise physiology based on their disability needs and their approved plan.
Strength Clinic may assist you in making inquiries into the service availability. You should make sure of your eligibility for the service and the required referrals/approvals.
Conclusion
In addressing chronic pain, waiting is not enough. It requires a systematic process that incorporates appropriate exercise, progressive steps and strategies on a daily basis, which can assist people to regain their functional ability and confidence.
Individualised chronic pain management may offer an easier way for someone to achieve these goals, whether it is getting back to work or simply taking part in recreational activities. If you are looking for exercise physiology services, Strength Clinic has got you covered!
FAQs
1. Can exercise physiology cure chronic pain?
It will not be able to cure your ailment for certain; however, there are some ways in which it may help you improve your physical attributes.
2. Is exercise safe if I am dealing with chronic pain?
Exercise can be very helpful for you, but only if it is of the appropriate kind and suitable for your condition.
3. How long does chronic pain rehab take?
There is no fixed period that has been defined for chronic pain rehabilitation, as it all depends on your own situation and aims.
4. Can exercise physiology help in conjunction with other chronic pain treatments?
Definitely yes, as there are chances of it working along with various other treatments for chronic pain.
5. How frequently should I see an exercise physiologist for my chronic pain problem?
This varies from individual to individual, as well as his or her goals.
Take the Next Step with Strength Clinic
If you have been affected by pain that restricts your normal functioning, we can guide you in finding chronic pain management strategies that suit your needs and setting goals.
Please get in touch with Strength Clinic at +61 434 842 378 to learn more about exercise physiology services.