Investigating the Physiological Mechanisms between Resistance Training and Pain Relief in the Cancer Population: A Literature Review

Abstract

This literature review examines the mechanisms of how exercise, specifically in the form of resistance training, may lead to pain relief in the cancer population. Primary data from three different cancer populations: breast, prostate, and lung, will be examined. A number of experimental studies have been conducted to confirm the effectiveness of resistance training on pain relief as well as the biochemical pathways that relate to this process. In this review, we will examine 5 randomized controlled trials. For the purposes of this review, pain is defined as physical suffering or discomfort associated with illness. Pain is the body's natural signal, bringing attention to damage that has been sustained by tissues. However, chronic pain is common in the cancer population, and often serves no good purpose but instead will negatively impact both physical and mental health. The three types of pain: nociceptive, neuropathic, and inflammatory pathways have been investigated, and the knowledge of pain mechanisms allows for the understanding of how it is associated with pain. The purpose of this exploratory literature review is to give insight on how to maximize pain-relieving effects of resistance training. Research has indicated that resistance training modulates pain pathways by upregulating the release of pain-relieving substances including beta-endorphins, anti-inflammatory cytokines, and endocannabinoids. Understanding of the benefits of resistance training may be useful in relieving cancer pain, and reproducing effects of pain-relieving strategies while minimizing the symptoms related to cancer and its treatment.

Comparison of time‐matched aerobic, resistance or combined exercise training in women living with obesity: The EXOFFIT study

“…70,71 Indeed, recent research has highlighted the link between RE and the increased release of beta-endorphins, endocannabinoids and antiinflammatory cytokines, which alter underlying pain pathways. 83 Consistent with previous literature, the findings demonstrate that the exercise interventions with a resistance component (COM, RE) were more effective than AE in improving depression scores. 59 The physiological and psychosocial underpinnings which explain the higher efficacy of resistance training for improving depressive symptoms are still poorly understood.…”

“…These findings are consistent with current evidence supporting the effectiveness of strength training for improving QoL and musculoskeletal pain 79–82. Indeed, recent research has highlighted the link between RE and the increased release of beta‐endorphins, endocannabinoids and anti‐inflammatory cytokines, which alter underlying pain pathways 83 …”

“…Indeed, recent research has highlighted the link between RE and the increased release of beta‐endorphins, endocannabinoids and anti‐inflammatory cytokines, which alter underlying pain pathways. 83 …”

Effects of a home-based exercise combined yoga and resistance training in enthesitis-related arthritis in China: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

“…Therefore, the additional involvement of RT may be able to compensate for the limitations of the low intensity of yoga, resulting in a more comprehensive benefit for children with JIA. Additionally, both yoga and resistance training have the potential to decrease the release of inflammatory mediators, which may lead to pain relief, improved functional ability and enhanced quality of life 42–44. Despite the potential advantages of combined yoga and resistance training (CYRT), there is currently a lack of studies investigating its effectiveness for patients living with JIA.…”

One more rep! The case for resistance training in young cancer survivors

“…Over the last several decades, evidence has shown us that resistance training (RT) is not just about feeling bulky and looking good but that there is more beyond aesthetics. The main target of RT, skeletal muscle, is now seen as an essential element of the complex network between hormonal, metabolic, and inflammatory pathways in addition to its innate function in the neuromuscular system ( 1 , 2 ). Indeed, it is unsurprising then that the health benefits of RT are numerous and include reduced all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease incidence, improved quality of life, improved mental health and physical functioning, and prevention of sarcopenia ( 3 – 8 ).…”