Fighting frailty

Abstract

reported the effect of exercise on pain in PD were identified, though pain was not the focus of the intervention in either trial. One reported a trend towards a reduction in pain, and the other reported a reduction in the presence and intensity of pain following exercise. However, these results do not indicate if exercise targets particular subtypes of pain. Conclusion(s):The neurophysiological effects of exercise such as neuroplasticity, neuro-restoration and activation of dopaminergic and non-dopaminergic pain inhibition provide a sound biological rationale for employing exercise in pain management. However, randomised controlled trials of exercise interventions for people with PD are required to determine if exercise results in a clinical reduction in pain in this population.Implications: Therapists should consider assessing people with PD for pain and monitoring any changes in pain in response to exercise interventions.