Physiotherapist says the best exercise for pain is the one you can sustain

There is no single exercise that consistently outperforms all others for persistent low-back pain, according to Port Coquitlam physiotherapist Sean Overin.

Overin, who co-ordinates the Chronic Pain Program at Tall Tree Health, said research comparing walking, running, strength training, yoga, tai chi, Pilates, swimming and general fitness classes has not identified one clear winner for pain relief or returning people to daily activities.

Instead, he said the most useful activity is often one a person will actually continue doing. Pain can lead people to avoid movements that hurt, but prolonged inactivity and growing worry about movement can contribute to ongoing symptoms.

He recommends returning gradually, beginning below what feels manageable and adding small amounts over time. That might mean walking with a friend along the Coquitlam River, swimming, gardening or cycling.

Targeted exercises for a particular knee, shoulder or back problem can still help, Overin said, but work best alongside regular activity that can be maintained. He noted that the column is general information and not a substitute for individual medical advice.