By: Dr. Luiz Felipe Carvalho
Stress is one of the biggest challenges faced by modern society, with increasingly evident impacts on overall health. According to the World Mental Health Day 2024 report, carried out by the Ipsos Institute, Brazil is the 4th most stressed country in the world, with 62% of respondents reporting the effects of stress on their lives.
Although widely associated with problems such as fatigue, anxiety and headaches, stress also plays a significant role in worsening joint pain, an effect that is often overlooked.
The Effect of Stress on Joint Pain
Chronic stress can contribute to increased inflammation in the body, amplifying the perception of pain, especially in the joints. In addition, the release of stress-related hormones, such as cortisol, can intensify muscle tension, creating a cycle of discomfort that worsens existing pain.
“Pain is not just physical, it involves mental and emotional factors. Stress, for example, can make pain more intense, as it sensitizes the body to painful responses and increases muscle tension, directly impacting the joints,” explains neuro-orthopedist Dr. Luiz Felipe Carvalho.
How to reduce pain perception?
Managing stress and adopting healthy habits are essential to relieving joint pain and reducing its perception. Check out five effective strategies:
- Practice deep breathing
Breathing techniques help relax the body and relieve muscle tension, reducing the impact of stress on joints. - Get moving
Light exercise promotes the release of endorphins, the body’s “natural painkiller,” relieving pain and improving mood. - Keep yourself distracted
Engaging in enjoyable and creative activities can help reduce your focus on the pain, helping to alleviate discomfort. - Sleep well
Quality sleep regulates sensitivity to pain and promotes the body’s regeneration, being crucial for general well-being. - Manage stress
Relaxation techniques such as meditation and mindfulness help reduce the perception of pain and the effects of stress on the body.
Conclusion
Stress affects not only the mind, but also the body, worsening joint pain and compromising quality of life. Adopting practices to manage stress and improve physical and emotional health is essential to alleviate symptoms and protect joints.
