As we celebrate National Stress Awareness month, we must recognize that most Americans experience stress daily. For those with arthritis, experiencing stress can cause an inflammatory response that can worsen pain and joint damage.
When you're under stress, your body releases chemicals. The release of large amounts of adrenaline and cortisol can alter your immune system responses. An abnormal immune function could play a role in aggravating inflammatory responses in people living with joint pain.
Just as stress can make arthritis symptoms worse, the chronic pain, swelling, and inflammation of arthritis can contribute significantly to your overall stress levels. The constant concern about your ability to keep working or care for your family can boost stress hormones, reinforcing a cycle of stress and pain.
The good news is that if you make it a habit to practice stress relief techniques, you'll be able to improve your emotional wellness and lessen joint pain. Daily stretching, walking, and gentle exercises like yoga can help you manage your body's production of stress hormones and inflammatory substances.
If you experience daily stress and chronic joint pain, stay well hydrated, get adequate amounts of vitamin D3, and avoid eating too many processed carbohydrates. Find ways to relax your body, get quality sleep and reduce your overall stress levels.
Regardless of the underlying causes, joint pain has to be dealt with so that you can function normally and continue to enjoy your life.
If your joint pain is severe or persistent, talk with the doctors at South Palm Orthopedics. We can help you find the treatment that's right for you!
The physicians at South Palm Orthopedics are committed to providing the highest orthopedic care level to every patient each time. Our physicians' team provides an advanced level of care, integrating the newest cutting-edge surgical and nonsurgical techniques with proven traditional methods of treatments.