By Megan Verhoff, PA-C
Pain Management, Blanchard Valley Pain Management
Do you want to reduce chronic pain and improve your quality of life? Physical activity has proven to be one of the best ways to achieve that goal. In June 2023, Medscape Medical News reported adults who consistently engage in moderate physical activity experienced the highest pain tolerances, while even light exercise demonstrated significant improvements in pain levels.
Physical activity has been shown to enhance mood, reduce stress, improve sleep, maintain a healthy weight and reduce cardiovascular disease. According to the University of Cambridge, parents who are physically active have children who adopt physically active lifestyles that remain throughout their lifespan.
If physical activity and exercise are helpful, what works best? Thankfully, it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. Each person can decide what works best for them; however, there are some nice guidelines available. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) and American Heart Association (AHA) recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week and muscle strengthening activities two days a week for adults. For kids, 60 minutes or more of moderate activity daily.
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