If you suffer from some type of chronic pain the last thing you are willing to do or have the energy for is any type of physical activity. Besides, over the years the main advice doctors had for chronic pain-sufferers was to get more rest. However things have changed.

Chronic pain is a serious thing and it should not be taken lightly. And any type of physical activity should be avoided without a doctor’s consult before you even begin. Your doctor or any other trained professional will be able to give you information or advise you on a number of activities, such as stretching, walking, strengthening exercises and swimming. Yoga, Pilates or some type of meditation might also be a good idea, as these types of physical activity will help with the flexibility of your body as well. You might be feeling a bit fearful of repeating your injury or making the pain worse. That is why it is so important to get help and reassurance from a trained professional.

As with exercise in general, but in this case especially, it is of utmost importance to pace yourself and have patience. It is not a competition; the main purpose is to ease the pain. Consistency over intensity is the order of the day.

What are you risking if you opt for staying inactive? The muscles, as well as heart, work slower and have less strength, meaning they are not as efficient as they could be. Fatigue, lower energy levels, insomnia, stress and anxiety, these are all common conditions if there is not enough physical activity in your life. Also the risks of chronic heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels as well as a risk of diabetes increases.

Reasons to be active? With physical activity, body releases endorphines, chemicals that in turn prevent pain signals from reaching your brain. Endorphines are also a natural feel good chemical that will help with stress and anxiety.

The body strength and flexibility will be on the up; you will have more energy, your heart and lungs will have more strength and work more efficiently, sleep will improve, mood will improve and your weight will stay steady.

And while it might sound scary to decide to take such a big step, with some professional help and will power you can beat that pain and live a healthier, more fulfilling life.