Torlak MS, Unuvar BS, Gercek H. Effect of Aerobic Exercise on the Levels of Pain, Quality of Life, and Alexithymia in Alexithymic Individuals With Chronic Pain: A Single-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial.
J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2022;
45:652-659. [PMID:
37294216 DOI:
10.1016/j.jmpt.2023.04.007]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
This study aimed to investigate the effects of aerobic exercise on pain, degree of alexithymia, and quality of life in individuals with alexithymia and chronic pain.
METHODS
A total of 40 participants who scored 61 or higher on the Toronto Alexithymia Scale-20 (TAS-20) were included in the study. The sample was subdivided into 2 groups using a computerized randomization program: an aerobic exercise group (n = 20) and a control group (n = 20). Participants in the aerobic exercise group underwent a 30-minute jogging protocol at 60% to 90% of maximum heart rate 3 days per week for 8 weeks under the supervision of a physiotherapist. Participants in the control group continued their daily physical activities. Outcome measures were the TAS-20, visual analog scale, Graded Chronic Pain Scale, and 36-Item Short Form Health Survey.
RESULTS
There was no statistically significant difference between the demographics of the 2 groups (P > .05). There was a statistically significant improvement in TAS-20, Graded Chronic Pain Scale, visual analog scale, and 36-Item Short Form Health Survey scores of the participants in the aerobic exercise group compared to the control group (P ˂ .05).
CONCLUSION
Aerobic exercise had a positive effect on pain, quality of life, and degree of alexithymia in individuals with alexithymia and chronic pain.
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