Stress is an unfortunate side effect of our busy lives. With our jobs, families, and social
lives scheduled to the minute, it should come as no surprise that stress is fairly commonplace
across the United States. According to statistics presented by the American Institute of Stress,
not only are Americans the most stressed-out citizens in the world, but the numbers show that
94% of employees report feeling stress in the workplace. Of course, stress is relative, and there
doesn’t yet seem to be any objective way of measuring it. But we know it when we feel it, and it
can have devastating long-term effects on your body if left unchecked.
Many people complain of back pain. It’s one of the most common ailments in modern
history, affecting 8 out of every 10 people at some point in their lives. With such high levels of
stress and so many cases of back pain impacting patients all over the country, it shouldn’t
surprise you that there’s a link between the two. In any case, let’s explore the relationship
between stress and back pain a bit further.
Whether you realize it or not, stress has repercussions that are both psychological and
physical. In fact, the former often leads to the latter. When you’re stressed, your mind begins
working overtime: unpleasant emotions such as worry, anxiety, and even fear are valid responses
to a stressful situation. Your body responds to these thoughts automatically in order to protect
itself from harm. Among the most common of these reflexive responses is the tightening of
muscles, including those in your neck and shoulders. Prolonged tension in those muscles can
lead to back pain, chest pain, headaches, and fatigue.
The most worrisome attribute that characterizes the relationship between stress and back
pain is its subtlety. Many people don’t even realize that they are holding tension in their neck,
back, or shoulders. One thing you can do is keep yourself accountable every day. Take a break,
close your eyes, and begin systematically relaxing your muscles, beginning with your shoulders
and traveling downward.
If you’re suffering from back pain but struggling to find a cure, we recommend seeing a
chiropractor as soon as possible. Chiropractic care can address the painful long-term effects that
come with overexposure to stressful situations. Here at Wirth Chiropractic, we pride ourselves
on helping patients minimize stress and tension along the spine. Contact us to make an
appointment, or schedule your free consultation today!
