Activity-based therapies are those that involve bodily activity, stretching or movement. They can be very helpful to use alone or in combination with other treatment strategies for pain control. Not only do they help get stiff muscles and joints moving, but they also promote the release of ‘endorphins’ which are a version of opioids your body makes. Examples include:
 

• Physical and occupational therapy – These therapies help you learn new ways to do tasks with less pain. Stretching, strengthening and aerobic exercises can help to increase your strength, flexibility and energy level and reduce pain.
• Daily exercise – Staying moving is one of the best ways to heal. Staying sedentary not only increases your risk of developing new injuries but has also been shown to increase the development of chronic pain syndromes. It allows blood to flow more efficiently to injured body parts and keeps stiff joints moving. Ask your provider what activities are safe for you to perform after an injury or procedure.
• Yoga and tai chi – Using gentle movements and deep breathing to promote flexibility, strength and relaxation.
• Strength Training – This therapy not only helps you gain strength, but also supports joints and reduces fatigue. Options include lifting weights or doing body-weight exercises.