Beneficial Effects of Exercise in Neuropathic Pain: An Overview of the Mechanisms Involved

• Published in: Pain research & management Vol. 2025; no. 1; p. 3432659
• Main Author: Ghanbari, Ali
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States John Wiley & Sons, Inc 01.01.2025; Wiley
• Subjects: Aerobics; Analysis; Animals; Antioxidants; Care and treatment; Chronic illnesses; Cytokines; Diabetic neuropathy; Enzymes; Exercise - physiology; Exercise Therapy - methods; Fitness equipment; Humans; Inflammation; Injuries; Isometric exercise; Nervous system; Neuralgia - metabolism; Neuralgia - physiopathology; Neuralgia - therapy; Oxidative stress; Pain; Physical fitness; Physical therapy; Physiological aspects; Physiology; Review; Strength training; Success; Therapeutics, Physiological; exercise; neuropathic pain; mechanisms; hypoalgesia
• ISSN: 1203-6765; 1918-1523; 1918-1523
• DOI: 10.1155/prm/3432659

Neuropathic pain is a prevalent issue that often arises following injuries to the peripheral or central nervous system. Unfortunately, there is currently no definitive and flawless treatment available to alleviate this type of pain. However, exercise has emerged as a promising nonpharmacological and adjunctive approach, demonstrating a significant impact in reducing pain intensity. This is why physical therapy is considered a beneficial approach for diminishing pain and promoting functional recovery following nerve injuries. Regular physical activity exerts its hypoalgesic effects through a diverse array of mechanisms. These include inhibiting oxidative stress, suppressing inflammation, and modulating neurotransmitter levels, among others. It is possible that multiple activated mechanisms may coexist within an individual. However, the priming mechanism does not need to be the same across all subjects. Each person’s response to physical activity and pain modulation may vary depending on their unique physiological and genetic factors. In this review, we aimed to provide a concise overview of the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of regular exercise on neuropathic pain. We have discussed several key mechanisms that contribute to the improvement of neuropathic pain through exercise. However, it is important to note that this is not an exhaustive analysis, and there may be other mechanisms at play. Our goal was to provide a brief yet informative exploration of the topic.