Exercise can significantly reduce chronic pain in individuals with spinal cord injuries, according to a new study. Researchers found that patients who followed a structured exercise program experienced a meaningful decrease in pain intensity after six months, offering a potential drug-free management option.
Study Results and Exercise Program
The study, published in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, followed 46 adults with spinal cord injuries and chronic pain. Half participated in a personalized aerobics and strength training program, while the other half maintained their usual activities.
The exercise regimen adhered to international guidelines recommending at least 20 minutes of moderate to vigorous aerobic exercise twice weekly and three weekly sets of strength exercises targeting all major muscle groups.
Participants in the exercise group could work out at home, local gyms, or community centers with support from counselors and fitness trainers. After six months, eight of 18 patients in the exercise group achieved a clinically meaningful 30% or greater reduction in pain intensity, compared to two of 16 in the control group. They also reported less pain interference with daily activities and improved mood.
Researcher Insights and Limitations
Lead researcher Kathleen Martin Ginis, chair of preventive medicine at the University of British Columbia, emphasized that while the findings are promising, larger trials are needed to confirm the results. “This isn’t a cure-all, and we need larger trials to confirm these findings,” Martin Ginis stated in a news release. The study noted that many spinal cord injury patients experience chronic pain that can be more debilitating than the injury itself, yet lacked evidence-based exercise prescriptions until now.
Researchers highlighted that the trial faced disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic and wildfire evacuations, which limited recruitment. Despite these challenges, the results suggest that these programs, when individualized and supported, can be effectively delivered in real-world settings. Patients are advised to consult healthcare providers before starting any new exercise regimen.
Broader Implications and Next Steps
Patient reports that exercise helps manage pain align with the findings, providing much-needed evidence for clinicians and patients alike. The 2017 international guidelines used for the study had previously improved general health and strength but were not known to reduce chronic pain. This trial adds critical insight into how these guidelines might be applied specifically for pain management.