Pain To Progress : The Healing Power of Physical Activity in Reducing Pain Intensity in Cancer Survivors

Cancer survivors often face a myriad of challenges during and after their treatment, and managing pain is a significant aspect of their recovery journey. While medications play a crucial role in pain management, emerging research suggests that engaging in regular physical activity can be a valuable and complementary approach to alleviate pain intensity in cancer survivors.

The relationship between physical activity and pain reduction is multifaceted. Exercise has been shown to release endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, which can help in managing pain perception. Additionally, regular physical activity can improve muscle strength, joint flexibility, and overall physical function, contributing to a better quality of life for cancer survivors.

The study is published by Wiley online in CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society.

Although physical activity has been shown to lessen various types of pain, its effects on cancer-related pain are unclear. To investigate, a team led by senior author Erika Rees-Punia, PhD, MPH, of the American Cancer Society, and first author Christopher T.V. Swain, PhD, of the University of Melbourne, in Australia, analyzed information pertaining to 51,439 adults without a history of cancer and 10,651 adults with a past cancer diagnosis. Participants were asked, “How would you rate your pain on average,” with responses ranging from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst pain imaginable). Participants were also asked about their usual physical activity.

U.S. guidelines recommend 150 minutes (2 hours 30 minutes) to 300 minutes (5 hours) a week of moderate-intensity, or 75 minutes (1 hour 15 minutes) to 150 minutes (2 hours 30 minutes) a week of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity.
Based on participants’ responses, the investigators found that, for individuals who had cancer in the past as well as for those without a history of cancer, more physical activity was linked with lower pain intensity.

The extent of the association was similar for both groups of individuals, indicating that exercise may reduce cancer-related pain just as it does for other types of pain that have been studied in the past.
Among participants with a past cancer diagnosis, those exceeding physical activity guidelines were 16% less likely to report moderate-to-severe pain compared to those who failed to meet physical activity guidelines. Also, compared with people who remained inactive, those who were consistently active or became active in older adulthood reported less pain.

“It may feel counterintuitive to some, but physical activity is an effective, non-pharmacologic option for reducing many types of pain. As our study suggests, this may include pain associated with cancer and its treatments,” said Dr. Rees-Punia

Incorporating Physical Activity into Survivorship:

It’s important for cancer survivors to consult with their healthcare team before starting any exercise program. A personalized approach, considering individual health status, treatment history, and current abilities, ensures a safe and effective integration of physical activity into the survivor’s routine.

Possible exercises may include:

– Aerobic activities: Walking, swimming, or cycling.
– Strength training: Light resistance exercises to build muscle.
– Flexibility exercises: Stretching routines to improve joint mobility.

While physical activity is not a one-size-fits-all solution, the evidence supporting its positive impact on reducing pain intensity in cancer survivors is compelling. Incorporating regular exercise into the survivorship journey not only aids in pain management but also promotes overall physical and emotional well-being. As we continue to explore holistic approaches to cancer care, embracing the healing potential of physical activity becomes an integral component in enhancing the lives of those who have triumphed over cancer.