The Relationship between Exercise and Inflammation

Pain management physician Robert Windsor, MD, has been practicing medicine for more than three decades. A lifelong athlete, Robert Windsor, MD, is a strong advocate for exercise as a treatment option for various health conditions.

Long-term, or chronic, inflammation contributes to numerous diseases, including cancer, arthritis, diabetes, and obesity. Exercise reduces the body’s inflammatory response by prompting the muscles to release interleukin 6 (IL-6). This small protein fights inflammation by reducing levels of TNF alpha, a protein that triggers inflammation. In addition, IL-6 inhibits the signaling effects of interleukin 1 beta, which causes inflammation that can damage the pancreatic cells responsible for producing insulin.

According to studies, at least 20 minutes of brisk walking is necessary to reduce inflammation in the body. However, other research notes that the longer and more intense the workout, the more the muscles produce IL-6.

Studies also note that IL-6 is likely not the only factor affecting inflammation in the body after exercise. Working out also increase the levels of interleukin-15 (IL-15), which regulates abdominal fat, another factor believed to promote inflammation in the body.

What Is Discogenic Pain?

Robert Windsor, MD, focuses much of his practice on interventional pain management. As testament to his knowledge in the field, Robert Windsor, MD, has trained more than 100 physicians in the subspecialty and has written, taught, and spoken about topics such as discogenic pain.

Discogenic pain may result from degenerative disc disease, a medical condition that develops as people grow older. Normally, spinal discs cushion the vertebrae of the spine. As people age, gain weight, or perform repetitive movements, these discs can become compressed and deteriorate.

Discogenic pain may also be caused by inflammation of the nerve receptors near the spine. Often, this inflammation results from injuries to the spine or discs. Genetics can also cause discogenic pain to develop by changing the chemical composition of the discs and making them dry out or wear down faster than normal.

Regardless of the cause, discogenic pain is often felt in the lower back, particularly when lying down, coughing, sitting, or bending. The pain also may be felt in the neck and down the arms.