The musculoskeletal system is made up of connective tissue, tendons, bones, cartilage, skeletal muscle and ligaments. The musculoskeletal system acts as the frame for soft tissue. Primary functions of this system include allowing for movement, providing support, providing protection, generating heat and circulating blood.
Stress has a pronounced impact on the body as a whole. But when you take a look at how it affects the musculoskeletal system, there are several different effects. By identifying how stress can impact your musculoskeletal system, you can take action by working with a health care professional, like a physical therapist, to reduce the overarching effects of stress.
How does stress affect the musculoskeletal system?
- Muscle contractions ” When a person undergoes stress, the body's natural response is to tense. Muscle tension from stress, among other things, can lead to effects like lactic acid buildup, episodic pain, muscle spasms, fatigue, limited mobility and further stress.
- Restricted blood flow ” With muscle tension comes restricted blood flow. This means a lack of proper blood circulation to the muscles and other parts of the body. It can have serious negative impacts on your health. Poor circulation to the muscles can feel like muscle cramps, throbbing and pain.
How can physical therapy help a stress-affected musculoskeletal system?
Physical therapy is a great option for those dealing with stress-related musculoskeletal disorders. It can provide a physical release for muscle tension and promote circulation, which can improve your symptoms of stress. Physical therapy can also provide you with helpful tools for physical activity that can provide significant stress relief and regulation, which can help prevent your musculoskeletal system problems from reoccurring.
Alliance PTP is ready to help you find top-notch PT for when your musculoskeletal system becomes affected by stress
At Alliance Physical Therapy Partners, we're proudly bringing together physical therapy practices across the country to help people get the high-quality PT they need. Want to see a physical therapist in person? We can put you in touch with an Alliance PTP partner that's close to you and that can help you address stress-related musculoskeletal system issues.
Not keen on in-person PT sessions or not close to an Alliance PTP partner? No worries. We also offer effective and affordable virtual physical therapy through our Agile Virtual Physical Therapy platform.
Contact our team today so we can help you find the most effective physical therapy services for your injury or condition.
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