Stress can have a profound effect on the body, and the back is one of the most common places where the tension builds up. The good news? Once you understand the connection between stress and pain, there are effective ways to reduce symptoms and regain confidence in your movements.
Can back pain be caused by stress?
Back pain can absolutely be caused by stress. When you're stressed, your body goes into a state of heightened alert. Muscles tense as part of a natural response. If this tension becomes chronic, it can lead to stiffness, reduced mobility, and pain, especially in the neck, shoulders, and lower back.
Stress can also:
Increase pain sensitivity by affecting the nervous system
Reduce blood flow to muscles, slowing recovery
Interfere with sleep, which is essential for pain regulation and healing
Over time, this combination can transform temporary discomfort into persistent back pain.
How do you recognize stress-related back pain?
Stress-related back pain often has several distinct characteristics:
Pain that varies depending on your mood or stress level
Muscle stiffness without an obvious injury
Pain that worsens during busy or emotionally demanding periods
Improvement during relaxation, rest, or vacation
A feeling of tension or "stuckness" in the back
What can you do about stress-related back pain?
Managing stress-related back pain requires a combination of physical and mental strategies.
1. Keep moving
Avoiding movement can actually worsen the pain and stiffness. Gentle, controlled movements help to:
Relax tense muscles
Calm the nervous system
Restore trust in your body
2. Reduce the workload on the nervous system
Techniques such as breathing exercises, mindfulness, and adjusting daily activities can help reduce overall tension and pain sensitivity.
How the MotiMove app helps
MotiMove is specifically designed for people who experience pain and still want to stay active. With the MotiMove app, you'll learn:
How to move in a way that feels safe for your body
How to gradually increase your activity without overexerting yourself
How to stay active on days when you're more stressed and in pain
Instead of avoiding exercise, MotiMove helps you retrain your body and nervous system so you understand that exercise can be safe and effective, even when you're in pain.
Start today
Ready to relieve your pain? Download the MotiMove app today and take the first step toward less pain while moving.