Understanding the Link Between Stress and Back Pain – Bournemouth Chiropractors Share Insights

We all know that stress and anxiety can cause a number of different physical and emotional responses. But did you know how we feel emotionally can be closely linked with the health of our spines? To highlight the connection between back pain and stress, our Bournemouth chiropractor looks at the relationship between the mind and the body…

How does stress cause back pain?

Being stressed or feeling anxious activates a stress response in the body that causes us to become tense in order to “fight” or take “flight” from a perceived danger. This creates a myriad of chemical changes in the body which can result in muscle tension and pain.

The greater the stress response, the more tense the muscles are likely to become. And if the body stays in a state of heightened stress, the muscles can become tight enough to lead to chronic pain, stiffness and soreness. Muscles are also more likely to spasm and lock up if this state of tension goes on for some time.

Any muscles in the body can be affected by stress, but the neck, back and shoulders often take a lot of the brunt. And here are some reasons why:

Shoulders and neck

When we feel stressed, we often hold our shoulders in a raised position. This shortens and tightens the muscles in this area which can lead to them becoming strained, achy and sore.

Mid and upper back

Have you ever noticed how you tend to take short, shallow breaths when you are feeling particularly anxious? This happens when we breathe through our chest and diaphragm which causes the muscles in this area to shorten and tighten. This can impact both the mid and upper back.

Lower back

The lower back is made up of a large group of muscles which support the spine and assist us with flexibility and movement. When the body is under stress, we tend to change our behaviours and posture.  We may also exercise less than usual which can further increase the risk of developing strain and stiffness in the lower back.

If you are experiencing back pain, seek professional help and evaluate whether the stress in your life could be an underlying cause. Some typical characteristics of stress related back and neck pain can include:

• General muscle aches
• Tender points in the muscles
• Soreness, stiffness and/ or spasms
• Sleeping difficulties and fatigue
• A feeling of the pain “moving around”

Our emotions and physical health are very closely linked. And don’t forget the frustrating cycle that chronic or untreated pain can lead to stress in itself. If you live with elevated stress, it’s important to address the underlying cause – for your mental and physical health.