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The Connection Between Stress and Physical Pain

  • June 16, 2026

Episode Notes:

In this episode, Dr. Brent Johnson from Castle Hills Chiropractic explores the powerful connection between stress and physical pain. He shares insights from his practice about how emotional and mental stress often manifests as neck pain, shoulder tension, and headaches.

Learn why your body holds onto stress and discover practical approaches to addressing both the physical symptoms and underlying stressors affecting your health.

Hey there, this is Doctor Brent Johnson from Castle Hills Chiropractic here in Castle Hills, Texas. Thanks for tuning in today.

You know, I have patients come into my office all the time complaining about neck pain, shoulder tension, or headaches… and when we start talking, guess what comes up? Stress. Almost every single time. They’re dealing with a tough project at work, family pressures, financial worries… and their body is literally holding onto all of that.

So today, I want to talk about something that affects just about everyone… the connection between stress and physical pain. Because here’s the thing… stress isn’t just in your head. It actually shows up in your muscles, your joints, and your spine. And understanding this connection can really change how you approach feeling better.

Let me explain what’s happening in your body when you’re stressed. When you feel stressed, your nervous system kicks into what we call fight or flight mode. Your body releases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. Now, that’s actually a good thing if you’re facing a real physical threat. But most of us aren’t running from danger… we’re just stuck in traffic or staring at a pile of bills. The problem is, your body doesn’t know the difference. It tenses up anyway.

And where does that tension go? Straight into your muscles. Your shoulders creep up toward your ears. Your jaw clenches. The muscles along your neck and upper back get tight and stay tight. And if this goes on day after day, week after week… those muscles don’t get a chance to relax. They start pulling on your spine, creating misalignments we call subluxations. And that’s when the pain really sets in.

Here’s what’s interesting. Chronic stress also changes the way your brain processes pain. Studies show that people under long-term stress actually feel pain more intensely. Your nervous system becomes more sensitive. So even a minor issue, like a little stiffness, can feel a whole lot worse when you’re stressed out.

Now, you might be thinking… okay Doctor Johnson, so what do I do about it? Well, the first step is recognizing the pattern. Pay attention to when your pain flares up. Is it during a stressful week? After a tough conversation? When you’re overwhelmed at work? Once you see the connection, you can start to address it.

One of the best things you can do is move your body. I know that sounds simple, but it works. Go for a walk. Stretch. Do some gentle yoga. Movement helps release that muscle tension and signals your nervous system that you’re safe. You don’t have to run a marathon… just get up and move for ten or fifteen minutes.

Also, focus on your breathing. When you’re stressed, your breathing gets shallow and fast. Try this… take a slow, deep breath in through your nose for a count of four. Hold it for four. Then breathe out slowly for a count of six. Do that a few times, and you’ll feel your shoulders drop and your muscles start to relax.

And here’s where chiropractic care comes in. When your spine is aligned and your nervous system is functioning properly, your body handles stress better. Adjustments help release that built-up tension, improve your range of motion, and calm down your nervous system. A lot of my patients tell me they feel lighter and more relaxed after an adjustment… like they can finally take a full breath again.

If you’ve been dealing with unexplained pain, tension headaches, or that nagging tightness in your neck and shoulders… and you know stress is part of your daily life… it’s worth getting checked. We can identify where your body is holding that stress and help you get relief.

So here’s my challenge for you this week. Pick one thing. Maybe it’s a five-minute walk at lunch. Maybe it’s three deep breaths before you start your car. Maybe it’s finally scheduling that appointment you’ve been putting off. Just one small step to break the cycle of stress and pain.

Thanks so much for listening today. I’m Doctor Brent Johnson at Castle Hills Chiropractic, and we’re here to help you feel your best. If you have questions or you’d like to schedule a visit, give us a call. We’d love to see you. Take care, and we’ll talk again soon.