Exercise-Induced Analgesia
The temporary pain reduction that occurs during and immediately following exercise activity.
Full Definition
Exercise-induced analgesia refers to the natural pain-relieving effect that occurs as a result of physical activity. This phenomenon is mediated by the release of endogenous opioids, endocannabinoids, and other neurochemicals during exercise. In exercise rehabilitation, clinicians leverage this effect to help patients manage chronic pain conditions while rebuilding physical function. The analgesic effect is dose-dependent and varies by exercise type, intensity, and individual patient factors. Understanding this mechanism helps rehabilitation professionals optimize exercise prescriptions for patients with persistent pain.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from exercise-induced hypoalgesia, which refers to reduced pain sensitivity rather than active pain relief.
In Context
- "The patient reported significant exercise-induced analgesia following the 20-minute stationary bike session." — progress note
- "Clinicians should document the presence or absence of exercise-induced analgesia when assessing treatment response." — clinical guideline