Swimming Training Reduces Neuroma Pain by Regulating Neurotrophins

Med. Sci. Sports Exerc., 2018 · DOI: 10.1249/MSS.0000000000001411 · Published: January 1, 2018

Neurology Pain Management Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study investigates whether swimming exercise can reduce pain caused by neuromas, which are nerve formations that can occur after nerve damage. The research focuses on how swimming affects neurotrophins, substances that influence nerve growth and pain. Rats with surgically induced neuromas were made to swim for five weeks. The researchers then measured their pain levels, neuroma size, and the amount of certain neurotrophins in their bodies. The study found that swimming reduced pain and neuroma size in the rats. It also altered the levels of specific neurotrophins in the nerves, spinal cord, and brain.

Study Duration

5 weeks

Participants

Male Sprague–Dawley rats (200–250 g)

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Swimming exercise alleviated neuroma pain and mechanical allodynia in rats with tibial neuroma transposition (TNT).
2
Swimming exercise inhibited neuroma formation induced by nerve transection.
3
Swimming modulated the expression of neurotrophins (NGF and BDNF) in peripheral neuroma, dorsal root ganglion, and the spinal cord.

Research Summary

This study investigated the effects of long-term swimming exercise on neuroma pain and neurotrophin expression in a rat model of tibial neuroma transposition (TNT). The results showed that swimming exercise reduced neuroma pain, mechanical allodynia, and neuroma formation in TNT rats. These beneficial effects were associated with the modulation of NGF and BDNF expression in the peripheral and central nervous systems.

Practical Implications

Pain Management

Swimming exercise can be a potential non-pharmacological intervention for managing neuroma pain.

Rehabilitation Strategies

Incorporating swimming into rehabilitation programs for amputees may help reduce residual limb pain.

Therapeutic Targets

Treatments targeting neurotrophins may be useful in managing post-amputation pain.

Study Limitations

1
The study was conducted on rats, and the results may not directly translate to humans.
2
The exact mechanisms by which swimming modulates neurotrophin expression and reduces pain are not fully elucidated.
3
Further investigations are needed to address the relationship between nerve regeneration and neuropathic pain.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Neurology