Stress is more than just a mental burden—it can have a profound impact on your body. From muscle tension and headaches to poor posture and chronic pain, stress can take a serious toll on your physical health. Let’s explore how stress affects the body and how physical and occupational therapy can help you manage it effectively.
How Stress Affects Your Body
When you’re stressed, your body reacts by going into “fight or flight” mode, releasing hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. While this response is useful in short bursts, chronic stress can lead to:
- Muscle Tension & Pain – Stress causes muscles to tighten, leading to neck, shoulder, and back pain.
- Tension Headaches & Migraines – Increased tension in the neck and shoulders often triggers headaches.
- Poor Posture & Workplace Strain – Stress often leads to slouching, forward head posture, and muscle imbalances.
- Shallow Breathing & Fatigue – Stress can restrict your breathing, reducing oxygen flow and causing fatigue.
How Physical & Occupational Therapy Can Help
We can help in several ways:
- Manual Therapy for Muscle Tension – Hands-on techniques, such as massage and myofascial release, help reduce tightness and improve mobility.
- Postural Training & Ergonomic Guidance – Therapists can assess your posture and teach you adjustments to reduce strain at work and home.
- Targeted Exercises & Stretching – Strengthening and stretching key muscle groups relieve tension and promote better movement patterns.
Simple Stress-Relief Exercises You Can Try Today
- Chin Tucks – Helps combat “tech neck” by strengthening deep neck muscles.
- Shoulder Rolls – Relieves tension in the neck and upper back.
- Diaphragmatic Breathing (Slow, deep breathing) – Slows your heart rate and encourages full oxygen intake.
- Seated Spinal Twist – Reduces stiffness and improves mobility.
Take Control of Stress & Feel Better Today!
If stress is impacting your body, you don’t have to tough it out. We can help you relieve tension, improve posture, and reduce headaches—so you can feel your best.
Contacto MOVIMIENTO today to schedule an appointment!
