A UBC Okanagan-led study indicates that following international exercise guidelines can help reduce chronic pain intensity for people living with spinal cord injuries.
Key facts
- •The study enrolled 46 adults with spinal cord injury and chronic neuropathic or musculoskeletal pain.
- •At six months, 44% of the exercise group achieved a clinically meaningful pain reduction of 30% or more.
- •Participants adhered more consistently to the aerobic portion of the exercise prescription than the strength portion.
- •The research was conducted at UBC campuses in Kelowna and Vancouver.
- •Lead author Dr. Kathleen Martin Ginis noted that while not a cure-all, the findings suggest exercise can be a viable drug-free pain management option.
A new randomized controlled trial led by UBC Okanagan researchers has found that exercise prescribed according to international spinal cord injury guidelines can reduce chronic pain intensity. The study, published in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, tested whether these guidelines could provide a drug-free alternative for managing pain in everyday settings. The research involved 46 adults with spinal cord injuries who experienced either neuropathic or musculoskeletal pain.
By the numbers
Study Methodology and Implementation
Participants in the trial were divided into two groups: one received a personalized aerobic and strength training program supported by certified fitness trainers and weekly counseling, while the other continued their usual activities. The exercise group performed their routines in community settings such as local gyms, community centers, or at home. The study was shaped by input from over 150 individuals with spinal cord injuries and 50 clinicians, though recruitment was limited to 46 participants due to COVID-19 restrictions and wildfire evacuations.
Results and Pain Management Outcomes
While results on the primary measure combining pain severity and interference were inconclusive, the exercise group showed significant decreases in spinal cord injury-specific pain intensity at three and six months. At the six-month mark, 30% or more reduction in pain intensity was reported by eight of 18 exercise participants, compared to two of 16 in the control group. Additionally, the exercise group reported improved mood, less pain interference with daily activities, and greater vitality at the three-month mark.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Medical Xpress.
