Treating stress-related neck pain with physical therapy

A rapidly approaching work deadline. Worrying about a child or grandchild who is ill. Being cut off by another driver. These and many other daily factors can lead to stress-related cervical pain. 

Many Americans are likely dealing with cervical pain due to stress. In fact, it’s reported that about 75% of Americans suffer from chronic high or moderate stress levels. This could be one reason why almost 80% of people experience neck pain every year. Physical therapists can help you treat neck pain, and these specialists may also be able to help you find ways to better manage stress. 

How does psychological stress lead to neck pain?

Many people see stress and neck pain as two separate issues. But the reality is that mental stress can often lead to physical issues, including an aching neck. The reason is because stress causes your body to release hormones like cortisol. In turn, the release of such hormones can lead to physical changes that include: 

• An increase in heart rate
• A spike in blood pressure
• More rapid breathing 
• Tensing of your muscles 
• Frequent headaches

Additionally, high levels of stress can cause the body to become more sensitive to pain. This means that a normally minor ache can feel much worse. 

What can a physical therapist do to treat stress-related neck pain?

Therapists can take many steps to help reduce your neck pain. First, they can evaluate your medical history, daily routine and physical health. This can help them identify issues that could be triggering your pain. 

Your physical therapist can build you an individualized therapy plan to address the root cause of your pain. A few of the therapy methods this plan may include are: 

• Manual therapy
• Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM)
• Dry needling
• At-home care
• Virtual therapy

Additionally, your physical therapist can show you stretches and exercises that can counteract the physical effects of stress. Using these movements when you’re feeling stressed could help you avoid an aching neck in the future. 

Find treatment for stress-induced cervical pain at Advent Physical Therapy

Is your stressful life a literal pain in the neck? Our physical therapy specialists at Advent Physical Therapy are here to help you find the treatment you need. Our team offers complimentary screenings to reveal the stressors or other issues causing your pain. Furthermore, we excel at building personalized therapy plans designed to reduce your pain and your level of stress. We can even help you treat your pain if you don’t have a referral from your doctor. 

Contact our team today for more information about our top-notch therapy services or to schedule your complimentary screening.