What is the Connection Between Stress and Back Pain?

Stress and back pain are heavily linked because stress is a common cause of upper and lower back pain. The main cause of this is tension in the muscles during times of stress or anxiety. This is true for many individuals, although the opposite is also a common occurrence. When back pain becomes severe or troublesome, many individuals may experience stress due to long-term discomfort and the associated lack of sleep or limited activities.

When stressed, it is natural for the muscles to contract and tense. When in danger, this is a protective response because it prepares the muscles to work harder in case of having to fight or escape from danger. This is part of the fight or flight response and is caused in part by adrenaline released during stressful situations. When this happens too often, the constant tension in the muscles can lead to pain and stiffness.

In this case, back pain can usually be alleviated by reducing stress and relaxing the muscles. If the stress has been present over the long term, this may take time. Severe anxiety can often be alleviated with medication. Environmental stresses, such as job worries or divorce, may not be preventable. Patients can find ways to better handle these situations, such as deep breathing, meditation, or back massage.

When stress and back pain occur occasionally, this is usually an indicator that stress is to blame. Sometimes, though, back pain may occur first and lead to anxiety later on. Arthritis, strains, and other conditions may lead to severe back pain. This discomfort can lead to trouble sleeping, reduced physical activity, and the inability to partake in everyday activities like shopping or working. These issues can lead to severe stress.

Most stress and back pain causes can be alleviated with prescription medication. Sometimes additional therapies may be needed, such as acupressure, acupuncture, meditation, and chiropractic care. Occasionally, back pain may be caused by an underlying health condition, such as kidney malfunction. These situations will have to be treated by a medical doctor.

Both stress and back pain can be reduced by getting enough sleep, sitting upright on chairs and sofas, and exercising the correct way. Maintaining a good posture while walking is also important. When sitting for long periods of time, especially if hunched over a desk typing, it is a good idea to stand and stretch regularly. By taking care of the back muscles and spine, stress may have less of an impact when it occurs and pain may be lessened.