Managing Stress with Osteopathic Treatments

What is stress?

Stress is a feeling we get when we face tough situations or when things change in our lives. It can make us feel worried, tense, or overwhelmed. Have you wondered if there is an alternative way to manage stress with Osteopathic Treatments?

When we’re stressed, our bodies react by making hormones like cortisol, which can make our hearts beat faster and our muscles tighten. Stress can happen for a short time, like when we have a test coming up, or for a long time, like when we have a lot of things to do every day.

There are different kinds of stress. Physical stress happens when we push our bodies hard, like when we exercise a lot. Emotional stress is when we feel sad, scared, or upset. Even good things, like moving to a new house or travelling, can cause stress because they change our daily routines.

Stress affects everyone differently. Some people might feel it in their bodies, like having headaches or stomachaches. Others might feel it emotionally, like feeling sad or angry. It’s important to know that stress is normal, but too much stress for a long time can make us feel sick or tired.

What happens to my body when I’m stressed?

When we feel stressed, our bodies go through several changes to prepare us to face a challenge or danger. When our body is in a sympathetic nervous system response, also known as the “fight or flight” mode, it prepares us to respond to perceived threats or challenges. This response involves several physical changes designed to help us react quickly. Here’s what happens physically:

1. Release of Stress Hormones: When we perceive something as stressful, our brain sends signals to release hormones like adrenaline and cortisol into our bloodstream. These hormones make our hearts beat faster and raise our blood pressure.
2. Increased Heart Rate: Adrenaline makes our heart beat faster to pump more blood to our muscles and organs, preparing us to act quickly.
3. Muscle Tension: Stress causes our muscles to tense up. This is our body’s way of preparing to respond to a threat or challenge. Over time, this tension can lead to headaches, backaches, or other muscle pains.
4. Shallow Breathing: Stress often causes us to breathe faster and more shallowly. This is part of the body’s “fight or flight” response, where we take in more oxygen to fuel our muscles.
5. Digestive Changes: Stress can affect our digestive system, causing symptoms like stomachaches, nausea, or diarrhea. Some people might lose their appetite when they’re stressed, while others may eat more than usual.
6. Immune System Suppression: Prolonged stress can weaken our immune system, making it harder for our body to fight off infections. This is why we might get sick more often when we’re under a lot of stress.
7. Impact on Sleep: Stress can make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. It can also lead to restless sleep or waking up frequently during the night. Poor sleep can then contribute to more stress, creating a cycle.
8. Emotional Effects: Stress can also affect our emotions. We might feel anxious, irritable, or overwhelmed. It can make it harder to concentrate or make decisions.

These physical symptoms are a natural response to stress or perceived danger. While they can be beneficial in short bursts to help us deal with emergencies, prolonged activation of the sympathetic nervous system (chronic stress) can have negative effects on our health.

Can Osteopathy help me manage stress?

Osteopathic treatments can help relieve the stress response in several ways:

1. Muscle Relaxation: Osteopathic manual therapists use gentle techniques such as soft tissue manipulation and stretching to release tension in muscles. This helps to relax tight muscles that can contribute to the physical symptoms of stress, such as muscle tension and discomfort.
2. Improved Circulation: Osteopathic techniques can improve blood flow throughout the body. Better circulation ensures that oxygen and nutrients reach all parts of the body efficiently, promoting relaxation and reducing physical symptoms of stress.
3. Balancing the Nervous System: Osteopathic treatments aim to balance the autonomic nervous system, which includes the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) branches. By reducing sympathetic nervous system dominance and promoting parasympathetic activity, osteopathy helps the body shift from a state of stress to a state of relaxation.
4. Pain Relief: Chronic stress can exacerbate pain conditions and increase sensitivity to pain. Osteopathic treatments can help alleviate pain by addressing musculoskeletal imbalances and promoting natural healing processes within the body.
5. Enhanced Well-Being: Osteopathic care is holistic, considering the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and emotions. By addressing physical discomfort and promoting relaxation, osteopathic treatments contribute to overall well-being and a sense of calmness.
6. Stress Management Techniques: Osteopaths may also provide guidance on stress management techniques, such as breathing exercises, mindfulness, and lifestyle modifications. These techniques can empower individuals to better manage their stress levels on a day-to-day basis.
7. Visceral Manipulation Techniques: During a treatment your therapist may use visceral manipulation techniques addressed at relieving tension within the visceral system.  This may help relieve digestive symptoms brought on by chronic stress.

Overall, osteopathic treatments offer a natural and gentle approach to managing stress by addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of stress response. By promoting relaxation, improving circulation, and balancing the nervous system, osteopathy supports the body’s ability to cope with stress more effectively and maintain optimal health and well-being.

How can Osteopathic treatments help me decrease my stress?

Imagine waking up feeling less tense and more relaxed. That’s how osteopathic treatments can help. When our bodies feel more relaxed, it’s easier to handle stress. We might sleep better at night and have more energy during the day. Anyone who feels stressed or has tension in their body can benefit from osteopathic treatments. Whether you’re a student with exams coming up, a parent juggling work and family responsibilities, or an athlete training hard, osteopathy can help you feel better and perform at your best. If your interested in learning more about Osteopathy check out our services page –  What is Osteopathy

During an osteopathic session, you’ll lie down comfortably while the osteopath gently moves their hands over your body. They’ll use soft touches and gentle stretches to release tension and improve how your body moves. It’s a relaxing experience that many people find soothing.

If you’re feeling stressed and want to explore how osteopathic treatments can help you, consider scheduling a session with a qualified osteopath. Your body will thank you for it!
Remember, taking care of yourself is important, and there are always ways to feel better. Osteopathic care might just be the key to a healthier, less stressful life.

If you are looking for a kick start on how you can decrease stress right now, check out our previous blog on Mindful Breathing Techniques for Anxiety

Written by Christine Dixon, published June 29, 2024.