Exercise therapy is one of the most important and effective treatments for reducing and preventing pain. Exercise causes the body to release chemicals such as endorphins and enkephalins, which block pain signals from reaching the brain. Exercise also offers general health benefits for people, regardless of whether or not they are suffering from pain.

Patients who exercise strengthen muscles and increase the range of motion in joints. Exercise programs can have special benefits for those suffering from various types of pain, such as back pain, neck pain, arthritis, fibromyalgia and lupus.

Most exercises fit into one of three categories:

• Flexibility. These include range-of-motion and stretching exercises that help ease movement in the joints.
  
  
• Aerobic capacity. Exercise that helps strengthen the heart, lungs and muscles associated with the cardiovascular system.
  
  
• Strength. Exercises that help build strong muscles.

Regular exercise can also:

• Promote weight loss, which can reduce stress in joints and help prevent osteoarthritis
  
  
• Improve sleeping and energy levels while awake
  
  
• Increase bone mass, which reduces the risk of injury and osteoporosis
  
  
• Help prevent heart conditions, diabetes and other diseases
  
  
• Enhance healing of wounds

People are advised not to begin an exercise program without first consulting a physician or other expert, such as a physical therapist, occupational therapist or certified exercise therapist.