If you’re living with chronic pain, chances are you’ve been through the wringer. Scans, scripts, conflicting advice, and the occasional “just rest” from someone who means well but doesn’t get it. Maybe medication didn’t help. Maybe it helped but came with side effects. Or maybe you’ve just hit a wall and thought, “Surely there’s got to be something else.”
There is. And it starts with how you move.
What Exactly Is Chronic Pain?
Chronic pain is pain that sticks around for longer than expected—usually more than three months. It can start from an injury or illness, or pop up with no obvious cause. Common types include:
- Lower back pain
- Osteoarthritis
- Fibromyalgia
- Post-surgical or post-injury pain
- Chronic fatigue or musculoskeletal pain
Over time, the nervous system can become hypersensitive, sending pain signals even when there’s no injury. This is called central sensitisation and it’s recognised in pain science (Nijs et al., 2014).
Why Exercise Can Help
Research shows that gentle, consistent movement can reduce chronic pain and improve quality of life (Ambrose & Golightly, 2015).
- Reduces nervous system sensitivity – Exercise helps your brain and body feel safe again (Geneen et al., 2017).
- Improves mobility and blood flow – Prevents stiffness and guarding behaviours.
- Boosts endorphins – Natural chemicals that reduce pain and lift mood.
- Builds confidence – Gradual exposure rebuilds trust in your body.
- Strengthens supportive muscles – Helps reduce strain in painful areas.
Even large-scale reviews support this. A Cochrane Review found that exercise improves pain severity and function across multiple conditions (Geneen et al., 2017).
The EP360 Difference
We’ve supported locals across Sydney’s Inner West for over a decade. Many of our clients come to us after other options haven’t worked.
- We listen first – Your story and your goals matter.
- We meet you where you’re at – No judgement. Just support.
- We work in real gyms – Friendly spaces that feel practical and welcoming.
- We go gradually – No bootcamps. Just steady progress.
We work with Medicare, NDIS, WorkCover, and private clients across Five Dock and St Peters. Mobile sessions available too.
What to Expect in Your First Session
- We chat – About your history and what you want to achieve.
- We assess – Gently observing movement patterns.
- We plan – A starting point that feels doable.
- We support – Regular check-ins, always adjusting as needed.
The Science: Simplified
Chronic pain isn’t always about damage. It’s about an over-sensitive alarm system. Exercise helps “turn the volume down” on pain by teaching your nervous system what safe movement feels like again (Blyth et al., 2019).
Common Presentations We See
- Low back pain – Often made worse by fear or inactivity.
- Osteoarthritis – Strength training supports joint health.
- Fibromyalgia – Graded activity helps energy and resilience.
- Chronic neck/shoulder pain – Often posture- or stress-related.
- Post-injury/surgery pain – Especially when other rehab has plateaued.
Common Questions We Hear
“I’m not fit enough to exercise.”
No worries. We start where you’re at and go from there.
“Exercise made things worse before.”
That’s common. We adjust the type, dose, and intensity safely.
“I hate gyms.”
That’s okay! Our spaces are low-pressure and friendly.
“Do I need a referral?”
Nope. You can come directly. We’ll guide you if a care plan applies.
Final Thought: You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
Living with chronic pain doesn’t mean you’re broken. With the right support, movement can become part of your path to feeling better. If you’re ready to give something new a go—or want to refer someone else—let’s have a chat.
EP360 Exercise Physiology. Helping you feel stronger, move better, and get back to doing what you love.
