The World Health Organisation categorises a lack of physical activity as the forth leading cause of death. Physical activity or movement are different to exercise, which is planned, structured, repetitive and intentional (1). Rehabilitation is another word oft used to signify a return to fitness following injury. But when you are in pain exercise is the last thing you want to do!

Book in while you twinge. In practicality think of movement like your diet – variety is key.

 

The BEAM trial showed at 12 months follow up the exercise group did not retain their improvements in pain relief whilst the chiropractic (SMT) group did (2). In a more recent study, results showed SMT to be better than rehabilitation (or stabilisation exercises) (3). Fascia First Chiropractic recommends manual therapy before giving out exercises because your body will likely learn a new normal from manual therapy, whereas exercises are best used to reinforce a healthy status quo.

 

References:

(1) Gunmelt D. Physical Activity vs Exercise, What is the difference? American Council on Exercise June 3rd 2015.

(2) Underwood M et al. Back Exercise And Manipulation Randomised Trial of Physical Treatments for Back Pain in Primary Care. BMJ (2004) 329 1377

(3) Hough E, Stephenson R and Swift L. A comparison of Manual Therapy and Active Rehabilitation with reference to Psychosocial Factors. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders (2007) 8 106