Exercise is a Natural Pain Killer - Part 1

by Lauren Walker

A common misconception is, when a limb or joint is injured, you should stop moving it. Some may have chronic joint pain or an injured joint, brought on by daily activity. In this case, I encourage movement for healing but we must do so safely.

Necessary for Healing

Part of healing an injury is bringing blood and oxygen to the injury and surrounding area. Specific exercise helps an injury by increasing blood flow to deliver essential nutrients, rebuilding surrounding muscle strength and preventing joint stiffness. Proper movement also stimulates the release of natural painkillers, called endorphins. Exercise also restores proper range of motion, to prevent re-injury, once you return to regular activity.

Circulation

Movement increases blood flow and flushes out inflammatory enzymes. It floods the injured area with oxygen and nutrients required for tissue repair.

Rebuilds Strength

Injuries often cause muscles to weaken or atrophy. Targeted, controlled exercises safely rebuild this muscle mass and stabilize the joint.

Improves Flexibility

A lack of movement causes stiffness. Controlled exercise maintains the joint's natural range of motion and prevents scar tissue from healing incorrectly.

Manages Pain

Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, which help naturally alleviate discomfort.

Prevents Re-injury:

Strengthening the supporting muscles and tendons reduces physical stress and lowers the likelihood of the injury recurring.

You Need to Move Wisely

I teach my clients, a certain level of discomfort is only natural when you have chronic joint pain or an injury. Imagine your discomfort as a scale from 1-10 and one is minor and ten is painful. If you typically sit somewhere in the middle, movement should not take you beyond your normal level of discomfort. When I work with people, my exercise program keeps them within that limitation. My clients improve progressively which improves function and quality of life.

Stay tuned for part 2

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