Anxiety is a condition that affectsÂ numerous people. While many who suffer from it seek help from mental health professionals, anxiety can cause other issues that need to be addressed, one of which is back pain.
Anxiety often leads to increased muscle tension, making pain more severe. This can result in any of the following symptoms that may, in turn, result in back pain:
- Changes in posture. One of the most common effects of anxiety are changes in posture, like alterations in the sitting position. When combined with muscle tension, posture changesÂ almost always leadÂ to back pain.
- Inactivity. People who are more active tend to be less receptive to aches and pains. Anxiety affects people’s activity levels, often causing them to become less active.
- Hypersensitivity. Those with anxiety typically become more sensitive, leading to more severe pain. This can also lead to other physical changesÂ thatÂ may worsen the pain, especially inÂ the back.
One of the worstÂ features ofÂ anxiety and back pain is that the feeling of pain can often lead to an increase in anxiety levels. With that in mind, it’s important to address back pain as soon as possible. Here are sixÂ ways to reduce back pain while suffering from anxiety:
- Stretch. Stretching is incredibly important to preventing pain, as it helps keep your muscles limber so that they don’t freeze.
- Posture. While overthinkingÂ your posture may lead to even more awkward positions, it’s necessary to stay attentive to your body and how it moves. If you noticeÂ you’reÂ sitting or standing awkwardly, move to a more comfortable position.
- Exercise. Unless told otherwise by a doctor,Â it’sÂ best to exercise and stay mobile. Even if it’s just going for a walk, everything you do to stay active will help lessen the chance of back pain. Just don’t overexertÂ yourself, as that may worsen the pain.
- Massage. Massage is a great way to relieve not only pain, but stress as well.
- Medication.Â Over-the-counterÂ pain killers areÂ useful in fightingÂ back painÂ but should be used in moderation. Taking tooÂ many medicationsÂ too often may lead to other issues.
- Chiropractor. Seeing a chiropractorÂ is a great way to relieve all levels of back pain.
If you’ve been suffering from chronic lower back aches as a result of anxiety and are looking for some relief, schedule an appointment with a professional chiropractor right away.