Stress is a natural response to challenging situations and can affect the neuro-musculoskeletal system, including the muscles, joints, nerves, tendons, ligaments, and bones involved in movement, stability, and posture.
When the body experiences stress, hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline are released, causing muscles to tense as a protective response. If this tension persists over time, it may contribute to pain, stiffness, inflammation, and other stress-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).
Occupational Stress
The Centre for Work Health and Safety have identified a correlation between workplace stress, and increased musculoskeletal pain. Occupational stress, unlike biological, physical or chemical stressors, can lead to specific occupational diseases with Safe Work Australia reporting elevated stress levels are linked with increased susceptibility to developing work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Across the globe, numerous studies have identified stress as a WMSD risk factor for specific industries including front line services, agriculture and primary industries, trades and construction healthcare, information technology and office workers.
How Stress Can Affect the Body
Muscle Tension and Pain
Chronic stress can lead to ongoing muscle tension, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and lower back. This may contribute to muscle fatigue, trigger points, headaches, and other musculoskeletal discomfort.
Poor Posture
Stress is often associated with postural changes such as slouching or hunching, especially during prolonged computer use. Over time, these habits can place additional strain on the musculoskeletal system and contribute to pain and stiffness.
Stress-Induced Inflammation
Stress can trigger inflammatory responses in the musculoskeletal system. Elevated levels of cortisol and other stress hormones contribute to increased joint pain, particularly in people with conditions like arthritis. Chronic stress has been found to exacerbate inflammation, which can worsen conditions such as tendinitis and bursitis.
Managing Stress-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders
Strategies that may help reduce stress-related musculoskeletal symptoms include:
- Regular physical activity such as walking, stretching, swimming, or yoga.
- Stress-management techniques including deep breathing, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation exercises.
- Taking short, regular breaks throughout the day, particularly during prolonged periods of sitting or computer work.
- Seeking professional healthcare advice when symptoms persist.
How Chiropractors Can Help
Chiropractors are five-year university educated healthcare professionals who regularly care for a range of musculoskeletal disorders including stress-related MSDs.
Given their advanced training, chiropractors are well equipped to recognise and manage stress-related MSDs and can also address musculoskeletal or ergonomic contributions to pain which are exacerbated by posture associated with psychological stress (eg, stress-related postural dysfunction with prolonged computer use at work or at home).
Every week, more than 400,000 chiropractic consultations help everyday Australians maintain their spinal health.
Using evidence-informed, non-surgical approaches, chiropractors aim to reduce pain, improve joint mobility, and help patients manage musculoskeletal health. They may also provide advice on exercise, posture, workplace ergonomics, and lifestyle factors that support overall health and wellbeing.