Stress Awareness Month: The Link Between Stress & Physical Pain

Stress isn’t just a mental or emotional burden—it can take a serious toll on your body. Many people experience muscle tension, headaches, back pain, and even joint stiffness as a result of prolonged stress. This April, during Stress Awareness Month, we’re shedding light on the connection between stress and physical pain—and how physical therapy can help.

How Stress Affects the Body

When you’re stressed, your body responds by tensing muscles, increasing heart rate, and releasing stress hormones like cortisol. Over time, this can lead to:

• Muscle tension and stiffness – Common in the neck, shoulders, and lower back.
• Headaches and migraines – Often triggered by tight muscles and jaw clenching.
• Poor posture and back pain – Stress can lead to slouching, which puts strain on the spine.
• Reduced mobility – Chronic tension can limit flexibility and movement.

How Physical Therapy Can Help

Physical therapy isn’t just for injuries—it can also help reduce stress-related pain and improve overall mobility. A PT can assist with:

• Stretching and mobility exercises – To relieve muscle tightness and improve flexibility.
• Postural training – To reduce strain on the neck and back caused by stress-induced poor posture.
• Hands-on therapy techniques – Such as massage and myofascial release to ease tension.
• Breathing and relaxation techniques – To help manage stress and reduce physical symptoms.

Movement as a Stress Reliever

Exercise is one of the best ways to manage stress, and physical therapists can guide you through safe, effective movement routines. Activities like yoga, walking, and low-impact strength training can help release endorphins, lower stress hormones, and promote relaxation.

When to Seek Help

If stress is causing chronic pain, headaches, or muscle tightness that won’t go away, physical therapy can be a valuable part of your self-care routine. A PT can create a personalized plan to help you move more freely, reduce pain, and manage stress more effectively.

This Stress Awareness Month, take a moment to focus on both your mental and physical well-being. Your body will thank you!