How Stress Can Aggravate Pain | Exercises That Can Alleviate Pain
When you’re suffering any type of chronic pain, whether caused by traumatic injury or a degenerative condition, you know stress typically makes things worse. What is the connection between stress and pain? Why does increased stress in your life commonly lead to more physical pain? Are there exercises you can do to manage or minimize the likelihood of stress-related pain?
How Is Stress Related to Pain?
Stress can increase your pain for a number of reasons:
- Pain is often related to or caused by muscle trauma or tension. A common response to stress is increased tension or “tightening up.” If you’re experiencing pain because your muscles are strained, anything that stretches them even more will lead to more pain.
- Stress can trigger the “fight or flight” response, which in turn can lead to the release of certain hormones (such as adrenaline). Because those hormones may mask the pain of certain activities, you may do things that ultimately cause further injury, resulting in greater pain when the hormone’s effect wears off.
- Stress can lead to the release of cortisol, an inflammatory substance, which can exacerbate pain.
- Stress can change how your brain processes pain, so that you feel it more acutely.
What Exercises Can You Use To Minimize the Impact of Stress on Your Pain?
Exercise is one of the body’s most effective tools for managing and minimizing stress:
- Most cardiovascular types of exercise, such as walking, running, biking, and swimming, can potentially release endorphins, which are known to have mood-enhancing effects.
- Weightlifting and strength training have also been shown to lower stress levels.
- Mind-body exercises, such as tai chi, meditation, yoga, and Pilates, have all been proven to alleviate tension and stress in your body
- Lifestyle options that are known to reduce stress include having a pet, tending a garden, and dancing
Contact Us To Set Up an Appointment With a Pain Management Specialist
At Advantage Healthcare Systems, we have extensive experience working successfully with individuals who are experiencing chronic pain. We have the skill, knowledge, experience, and resources to conduct a thorough assessment of your injury. We can develop and monitor a program for care or, when necessary, refer you to a specialist, such as a neurologist or physiatrist, for targeted treatment. Call us toll-free at 1-877-487-8289 or fill out the form provided below to schedule an assessment. We offer locations across Texas, including Fort Worth, Dallas, and San Antonio.
