How Exercise Can Help Manage Chronic Pain – Backed by Science

Are you tired of living with constant pain? You’re not alone. Chronic pain affects over 1.6 million Australians aged 45 and over, limiting their ability to enjoy life, move freely, and stay independent. But here’s the good news — exercise is one of the most powerful tools we have to manage chronic pain. At Brown & Ross Exercise Physiology, we help people just like you move better, feel stronger, and reclaim control over their lives through safe, evidence-based exercise programs.

What Is Chronic Pain?

Chronic pain is any pain that lasts longer than three months. It can stem from a variety of causes, including:

• Injury or surgery

• Medical conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia

• Long-term inflammation

• Nervous system dysfunction

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, chronic pain doesn’t just hurt physically — it impacts independence, mobility, and mental wellbeing. In fact, people with chronic pain are five times more likely to experience limitations in daily life.

Exercise: A Natural Pain Reliever

You might be thinking, How can exercise help when I’m already in pain?

Research shows that regular physical activity can actually reduce the intensity of chronic pain. A 2024 review by Corte-Rodriguez and colleagues highlighted the analgesic (pain-relieving) effects of exercise for conditions like:

• Osteoarthritis

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Chronic lower back pain

But the benefits don’t stop at pain relief. Exercise improves:

• Muscle strength and joint stability

• Fatigue resistance and endurance

• Mobility and balance

• Overall quality of life

At Brown & Ross, our Accredited Exercise Physiologists tailor each program to your specific condition and goals, so you feel supported every step of the way.

Rewiring the Brain: The Power of Positive Movement

One of the lesser-known but exciting benefits of exercise is how it reshapes the brain. Through repeated movement and positive reinforcement, exercise can help form “positive neurotags” — brain patterns linked to pleasure, motivation, and reduced threat response.

In simple terms? Exercise can help you focus less on pain and more on progress. Over time, this can build confidence, reduce fear around movement, and help you get back to doing what you love.

How We Help at Brown & Ross Exercise Physiology

At our clinic inside Mount Annan Leisure Centre, we work with people managing pain from all walks of life. Whether your goal is to reduce stiffness, return to hobbies, or simply walk without discomfort, we create customised, safe, and progressive exercise programs that meet you where you are.

We also provide:

• NDIS-funded therapy for chronic pain

• Post-surgical rehabilitation

• Water-based therapy options

• Gym and home-based programs

• Ongoing support, education, and pain science coaching

Take the First Step Towards Relief

Living with chronic pain can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you're ready to move better, feel stronger, and take control of your pain, we’re here to help.

👉 Book an initial consultation with Brown & Ross Exercise Physiology📍 Mount Annan Leisure Centre🌐 www.brownrossep.com📞 Call us today to start your journey back to pain-free living.