Stress and Back Pain

As a neurosurgeon, I see many patients with back pain. One of the most important things I can tell them is that managing stress can help to reduce their pain and improve their overall well-being.

Here are some ways that stress can contribute to back pain:

Muscle tension: When we are stressed, our bodies release hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones can cause our muscles to tense up, which can lead to back pain. This is especially true for the muscles in the neck, shoulders, and back.

Poor posture: When we are stressed, we often tend to hunch over and slouch. This poor posture can put additional strain on the back muscles and lead to pain.

Reduced blood flow: Stress can cause our blood vessels to constrict, which can reduce blood flow to the back muscles. This can lead to muscle fatigue and pain.

Inflammation: Stress can also lead to inflammation throughout the body, including in the back. Inflammation can irritate the nerves and muscles in the back, which can lead to pain.

Pain perception: Stress can also alter the way that our brains perceive pain. When we are stressed, our brains are more likely to interpret signals from the back as pain.

There are many ways to manage stress, such as:

Exercise: Exercise is a great way to reduce stress and improve your overall health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

Relaxation techniques: Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help to calm your mind and body.

Time management: Learning how to manage your time effectively can help to reduce stress and overwhelm.

Social support: Spending time with loved ones and talking about your problems can help to reduce stress and improve your mood.

Here are some additional tips for managing stress and back pain:

• Get enough sleep.
• Eat a healthy diet.
• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
• Maintain good posture.
• Use proper lifting techniques.
• Take breaks throughout the day to move around and stretch.

If you are experiencing back pain, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Once any underlying conditions have been treated, your doctor can help you to develop a treatment plan for your back pain, which may include stress management techniques.

Dr. Darakchiev is a board-certified, fellowship-trained neurosurgeon skilled in diagnosing and treating a variety of brain, spine and peripheral nerve disorders. To schedule an appointment, please call 631-690-9080.