Gaby
We know regular exercise benefits both mental and physical health. Now researchers have found another reason to stay active: consistent physical activity raises pain tolerance.
The Connection Between Physical Activity and Pain Threshold
Norwegian researchers followed 10,732 adults who engaged in sports. They collected data twice, 7–8 years apart.
They measured pain tolerance using a cold pressor test. Participants immersed a hand in cold water for as long as they could, up to a maximum of 106 seconds.
The findings showed that more active people lasted longer in the cold pain test. Participants who consistently made time for exercise during the study had higher pain thresholds.
The researchers found that physical activity at any point during the observation period was associated with higher pain tolerance, even if someone didn’t switch from a sedentary lifestyle to an active one. In other words, an overall higher level of activity corresponded with higher pain tolerance. When exercise intensity increased during the study, pain thresholds rose as well.
People with Sedentary Lifestyles Have Lower Pain Tolerance
The scientists emphasized that this observational study doesn’t prove increased physical activity directly causes higher pain resistance. Other factors could play a role. Still, the connection between physical fitness and pain tolerance is clear.
The study found that people who exercised regularly, even if not often, lasted an average of 6.7 seconds longer in the cold test than those who did no exercise. Those who exercised intensely and regularly had up to 16.3 seconds more tolerance. Participants who maintained high activity throughout the study increased their average tolerance by 20.4 seconds.
The results suggest a relationship between physical activity and pain thresholds. People with sedentary lifestyles may be more prone to and less tolerant of chronic pain.
Maintaining a consistent level of physical activity can increase pain tolerance. Changes in activity levels over time may also raise pain thresholds.
Participants self-reported their activity levels; there was no objective measurement. Although the study included many people, similar conclusions appeared even in smaller groups.
Exercise as a Potential Pain Reliever
ScienceAlert reports that researchers are exploring the link between exercise and chronic pain. Early studies suggest physical activity changes how the body copes with pain.
Increased pain tolerance may help reduce the future risk of chronic pain, though evidence is limited. Researchers plan further study, and these results support the idea of using increased physical activity as a nonpharmacological way to prevent or reduce chronic pain.
