Three Types of Stress

June 28, 2021 Posted in: ASK AN EXPERT

The vertebral restriction is a way the body attempts to deal with stress.

Physical Stress:
The effect of physical stress on the spine is probably the easiest to appreciate. Physical stress might include slips and falls, car accidents, repetitive motions or improper lifting. Not to mention a sagging mattress, sitting on a wallet, or simply the effects of gravity.

Emotional Stress:
These days, emotional stress is so common, we think it’s normal. However, emotional stress can take its toll on the spine and the muscles that support it common culprits include grief, anger, or fear.  Take time to notice the posture of someone who is sad or depressed, and you can see the impact on the spine.

Chemical Stress:
The third type of stress is chemical stress. Alcohol, drugs, pollution, and poor nutrition are common examples of chemical stress. These days our environment is awash with various manmade chemicals that can wreak havoc on our nervous systems.

Think of stress as a heavyweight on the body. When that burden gets too great, muscles contract, and spinal bones misalign. Nervous system interference can result. In short term, the vertebral restriction is an effective strategy the body uses to manage stress. But when vertebral restriction does not self-resolve after the stressor has come and gone, it can create a host of health issues