Physical activity and exercise of benefit for chronic pain

The broad spectrum of physical activity and exercise interventions assessed (aerobic, strength, flexibility, range of motion and core or balance training programmes, as well as yoga, Pilates and Tai Chi) were potentially beneficial, though the evidence for benefit was low-quality and inconsistent. There was evidence that physical activity reduced the severity of pain, improved physical function and had a variable effect on both psychological function and quality of life. However, these results were not found in all studies. The most commonly reported adverse events were increased soreness or muscle pain, which subsided after several weeks of the intervention.