Understanding Stress and Its Impact on the Body
Introduction
Stress is something most of us are familiar with — busy schedules, work demands, family responsibilities, and the constant pull of technology can all place pressure on the body. While stress is a normal part of life, ongoing or poorly managed stress can influence how the body moves, feels, and functions over time.
Many people across Avondale Heights and nearby suburbs such as Maribyrnong, Ascot Vale, Essendon, Niddrie, Keilor East and Moonee Ponds notice that periods of increased stress are often accompanied by muscle tightness, fatigue, poor sleep, or recurring aches and pains. Understanding how stress affects the body is an important step toward supporting long-term health and wellbeing.
This article explores what stress is, how it can influence the body physically, and practical ways to support your body during stressful periods.
What Is Stress and How Does the Body Respond?
Stress refers to the body’s response to physical, emotional, or environmental demands. When the body perceives stress, it activates a series of physiological responses designed to help us cope with perceived challenges.
This response may include:
Increased muscle tension
Changes in breathing patterns
Altered posture or movement habits
Increased fatigue
Heightened sensitivity to discomfort
Research shows that prolonged activation of the body’s stress response can contribute to ongoing muscle tension and changes in movement patterns, particularly through the neck, shoulders, and lower back (McEwen, 2007).
Over time, these changes may place additional strain on joints and soft tissues, especially for people who spend long hours sitting, working at a desk, or performing repetitive tasks — a common experience for many people living and working in Melbourne’s inner-west and surrounding suburbs.
The Physical Impact of Stress on Muscles and Movement
One of the most common physical effects of stress is increased muscle tension. When stress is persistent, muscles may remain in a heightened state of contraction, reducing their ability to relax fully.
This can contribute to:
Reduced spinal mobility
Postural strain
Generalised aches and stiffness
Studies suggest that stress may influence the way muscles activate and recover, which can impact movement efficiency and comfort (Lundberg, 2005).
From a chiropractic perspective, reduced movement and sustained muscle tension may affect how the spine and joints function together. Supporting healthy movement patterns, addressing postural habits, and encouraging regular movement breaks may help the body adapt more effectively during stressful periods.
How Chiropractic Care May Support the Body During Stress
Chiropractic care focuses on the relationship between the spine, joints, muscles, and nervous system. While chiropractic care does not treat stress itself, it may help support the body by addressing physical tension, restricted movement, and postural strain that can accompany stressful lifestyles.
Care may involve:
Assessing spinal and joint movement
Hands-on techniques aimed at improving mobility
Advice around posture, movement habits, and ergonomic setup
Some evidence suggests that manual therapies may assist in reducing musculoskeletal discomfort associated with muscle tension and mechanical stressors (Bialosky et al., 2009).
For people in Avondale Heights, Essendon, Keilor East, and nearby areas, chiropractic care may form part of a broader approach to maintaining comfort, movement, and physical resilience during demanding periods of life.
Simple Strategies to Help the Body Manage Stress
In addition to hands-on care, everyday habits can play a meaningful role in supporting the body under stress:
1. Prioritise regular movement
Gentle movement throughout the day — such as walking, stretching, or posture changes — can help reduce sustained muscle tension.
2. Optimise your workspace
Small ergonomic changes to desk height, screen position, or chair support can reduce unnecessary strain on the spine and shoulders.
3. Support rest and recovery
Adequate sleep and downtime allow the body time to recover from both physical and mental demands. Research highlights the importance of recovery in maintaining musculoskeletal health (Meerlo et al., 2008).
Supporting Your Health Locally
If ongoing stress is affecting how your body feels or moves, seeking guidance may help you better understand what your body needs. Many people across Maribyrnong, Ascot Vale, Niddrie, Sunshine, and surrounding suburbs choose chiropractic care as part of a proactive approach to physical wellbeing.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re looking to better understand how stress may be affecting your body and movement, our team at Apex Chiropractic is here to help.
📞 Call us at 1 300 274 493
📍 Visit us at 149 Military Rd, Avondale Heights VIC 3034
References
McEwen, B. S. (2007). Physiology and neurobiology of stress and adaptation. Physiological Reviews.
Lundberg, U. (2005). Stress hormones in health and illness. Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health.
Bialosky, J. E. et al. (2009). The mechanisms of manual therapy in the treatment of musculoskeletal pain. Manual Therapy.
Meerlo, P., Sgoifo, A., & Suchecki, D. (2008). Restricted and disrupted sleep. Sleep Medicine Reviews.