University of Adelaide study finds physical activity effective for pain relief

A new study from the University of Adelaide suggests that physical activity can be as effective as some medications for relieving both acute and chronic pain. Researchers analyzed 157 systematic reviews, encompassing 2,736 randomized controlled trials and over 220,000 participants.

Findings indicate that low-intensity exercise may be more effective for pain relief than moderate or high-intensity activity. Additionally, shorter programs of approximately 12 weeks, involving less than 120 minutes of physical activity per week, yielded greater results than longer or more intensive programs.

During physical activity, the body releases substances such as endorphins and serotonin, which can alter how the brain perceives pain and increase pain tolerance. While physical activity can also reduce inflammation and improve mood, researchers emphasize that it is not a universal solution and its effectiveness depends on the cause of the pain, the individual's physical condition, and adherence to the program.