Low-impact exercises for pain

Patients struggling with chronic pain find it difficult to engage in exercises. Yet research shows that physical activities is one of the most effective treatments for many pain conditions. It is important for patients to be strategic about exercise, & invest the limited time & energy on sustainable, beneficial forms of exercises.

Walking & Nordic walking

Walking is itself a good aerobic exercise with cardiovascular benefits. It does provide a degree of stress to the joints & bones which is beneficial to some.

For those with trouble with balance, and those who seek a faster pace, it is reasonable to consider “Nordic walking,” which uses walking poles.

Yoga & pilates

The recommendation for yoga comes with it a caveat. Over the years I have seen some yoga instructors excessively focus on extreme, sustained poses that require severe twisting & bending of the body. For patients with chronic pain, this may very well be counter productive, and is a set up for new exercise-induced injuries.

There are some yoga instructors with additional training & experience, and provide “medical yoga”.

Pilates is similar to yoga, but has a stronger emphasis on strengthening the cores. It may be a better fit for many patients with chronic…