


In tests of pain processing by the central nervous system, physically active have lower pain perception and are better able to block responses to painful stimuli, according to the new research by Kelly M. Naugle, PhD, and colleagues of Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis. "This study provides the first objective evidence suggesting that behavior is related to the functioning of the endogenous pain modulatory systems in older adults," the researchers write.



One test, called "temporal summation," measured the production (facilitation) of pain responses to repeated pain stimuli. The other test, called "conditioned pain modulation," assessed the reduction (inhibition) of pain responses to competing pain stimuli.


In other words, older adults who did more moderate to vigorous physical activity perceived less facilitation of pain, while those who did at least some activity were better able to block pain perceptions. These differences may be relevant to the "central sensitization" process believed to be responsible for the transition from acute to .


The results are consistent with studies in younger adults suggesting that higher levels of physical activity are related to "more efficient conditioned pain modulation." Older adults are more likely to be physically inactive, which might make them more vulnerable to chronic pain.

"Our data suggest that low levels of sedentary behavior and greater light physical activity may be critical in maintaining effective endogenous pain inhibitory function in older adults," Dr. Naugle and coauthors write. Further studies will be needed to test the implications for physical activity programs to reduce and prevent pain in older adults. For example, it might be possible to match the patient's specific dysfunctional pain modulation pattern to the type of physical activity that can best improve their response patterns.

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More information: Kelly M. Naugle et al. Physical activity behavior predicts endogenous pain modulation in older adults, PAIN (2017). DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000000769
Journal information: Pain

Citation: Can staying active help to prevent chronic pain? Physical activity affects pain modulation in older adults (2017, February 24) retrieved 14 November 2019 from https://medicalxpress.com/news/2017-02-chronic-pain-physical-affects-modulation.html

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