Does Stress Cause Neck Pain?
Does stress cause neck pain? The short answer is no! At Nestor Physical Therapy, we like to say “contributes to” instead of “causes.” The casual way healthcare professionals throw around terms can lead to confusion and, worse still, ineffective treatment. Fortunately, our highly skilled therapists know how to dig deep and find the root cause of your neck pain, and this information helps you find relief!
Let’s discuss Nicole, a 40-something-year-old working mother of three. Nicole was used to being very active, balancing her work schedule with getting her kids to all the various activities and school functions that come with being a mom nowadays.
Her neck pain first started as a crick in the neck when she woke up one morning. As the day progressed from driving her kids around to sitting at her desk, she noticed that turning her head became more difficult and painful, making focusing on work nearly impossible.
Nicole struggled to figure out why her neck started hurting and came to the conclusion that stress “must be” the culprit. The more pain and difficulty moving she had, the more convinced she was that stress was to blame.
Understanding Nicole’s Neck Pain
One of the most common things we hear from our patients is that their pain started for “no apparent reason.” Like Nicole, people will wake up with a crick in their neck or notice a stiffness turning when driving in the car. It is also common for people to notice tightness in their upper back and neck after a long day.
So, what is actually the source of the pain? In most cases, there is an issue with the neck joints or the neck muscles due to prolonged positions. Our neck joints don’t like remaining in any position for extended periods. In Nicole’s case, she first noticed her pain in the morning, which may have been related to her neck position while sleeping. It is also important to note that in Nicole’s case, the first sign of any issue was in the morning when she woke up, unrelated to stress.
As Nicole’s day progressed, her pain got worse. But this also was more likely related to how she held her neck while driving or sitting at her computer. In both cases, her posture, specifically how she held her neck, seems to have contributed to her pain. Prolonged sitting can lead to a forward head position, resulting in tension to soft tissue (i.e., muscles, tendons, and ligaments) or negative changes to our blood flow.
The muscles of our neck function best when we move them. So, holding her head in one position likely led to irritation of the muscles and affected her ability to move her neck, which in turn caused stress.
Stress “contributes” to neck pain because, when we experience stress, our bodies naturally respond by tensing up as a protective measure. This tension can lead to discomfort, particularly in the neck and upper back region. Research studies have found that individuals with higher stress levels reported increased neck pain as compared to those with lower stress levels. This is why we say “contributes” to, but not the cause of, neck pain.
How Physical Therapy Can Help Alleviate Neck Pain
We will target the source of your pain by performing a thorough examination, starting with your medical history and details about how, when, and where your symptoms began. As we saw with Nicole, determining how, when, and why the pain started helps us eliminate possibilities and get to the actual root cause(s).
Our therapists will also analyze your posture and movement to identify any limitations or restrictions contributing to your condition. We’ll use this information to design a program that addresses your specific needs.
Our treatment plans focus on relieving your pain and improving your posture, mobility, strength, etc., and educating you about managing your symptoms. Your program will likely include manual therapy (i.e., soft tissue work and/or joint mobilizations), targeted stretches, exercises, activity modification, or posture recommendations.
We’ll listen to your unique situation and specific issues and then work to help you find relief and get back to your normal routine.
Book Your Appointment Today!
If you’re dealing with neck pain or looking for someone to help you figure out what is causing your issues, call us today and set up a consultation!
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October Fest Sausages and Pretzels
Did you know that October Fest starts in September? It started in October 1810 to celebrate the marriage of prince Ludwig (future King of Bavaria) to princess Therese. It runs from mid-September to the first Sunday in October and takes place in Munich Germany. There are some classic attires worn by locals and traditional food served.
This month’s recipe is inspired by October Fest and is a great option when tail gaiting for your favorite team. Sausages (bratwurst) with onions and peppers, and soft pretzels as an easy appetizer.
Here is how it all comes together. I bought pretzels, but feel free to make them from scratch if you prefer. I heated the pretzels on a baking sheet in the oven and served with a grain mustard. Pick your favorite mustard.
I set up one of my portable grills with charcoal and once I had a medium high heat, I added the sausages and grilled for 2 minutes a side for a total of 8 minutes. I removed the sausages from the grill and placed a cast iron skillet on the grate. While the skillet heated up, I sliced one large onion and two red bell peppers. Next, I tossed the onions and peppers in bowl with olive oil and generously seasoned them with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Once the skillet was hot, I sauteed the sliced onions and peppers for about five minutes or until they soften.
This next step can be skipped, but I think it brings the dish together. I poured enough beer over the onions and peppers to just cover them and then placed the sausages back on top. I let everything cook for another five+ minutes until there is minimal liquid in the skillet.
I served the sausages in rolls topped with the onions and peppers and more of the grain mustard. I used grilled brioche hotdog buns and grilled pretzel hamburger buns to combine the sausage and pretzel theme of October Fest.
The sausages had a nice snap when I bite into the them and were still juicy on the inside. The onions and peppers were slightly sweet but were balanced by the spiciness of the mustard. The grilled pretzel bun added a crusty element and tied it all together. Enjoy!
Unconventional Yet Effective Solutions for Neck Pain
Do you ever wake up with a stiff neck and wonder why it keeps happening? You’re not alone. Neck pain is pretty common, and it can be super annoying. But guess what? There are solutions, including some more unusual ones you may not have heard about yet.
Our therapists at Nestor Physical Therapy use cutting-edge approaches to ensure you find the most effective ways to find lasting relief!
How to Help Your Neck Pain — Tips You May Not Know
Tackling neck pain is not just about focusing on the neck itself. By implementing these unconventional yet scientifically-backed recommendations into your daily routine, you’re setting yourself on a path toward relief and lasting wellness.
The way your lower back is positioned has a big effect on your neck. Using lumbar support can help you sit up straight, letting your neck sit over your shoulders like it should.
When you know you will be sitting for a while, whether at work or in the car, use a rolled-up towel or buy a lumbar roll to put in your lower back. Even though you’re changing the lower back position, your neck will thank you!
The thoracic spine consists of the 12 vertebrae in your mid-back. It plays a critical role in your overall spinal function. When this area is stiff or restricted, your neck compensates by moving more than it should. This often leads to a forward head posture, which can strain the neck muscles and lead to long-term pain.
Believe it or not, the state of your mind can also help heal your neck pain. Research has shown that stress can intensify pain, so techniques like mindfulness and breathing exercises can help reduce stress levels. Just a few minutes a day of deep breathing can go a long way.
Using unconventional techniques like lumbar support, thoracic mobility exercises, and even mindfulness can help you feel better faster. Why not give these unconventional methods a try? Your neck will be happier for it!
What We Treat at Nestor PT!
At Nestor Physical Therapy, we treat a wide range of conditions—from back, neck, and joint pain to balance disorders, chronic pain, vertigo, TMJ dysfunction, and more. Whether you’re recovering from surgery, managing a neurological condition, dealing with arthritis or fibromyalgia, or healing from a sports, work, or car accident injury, our expert team is here to help. We also offer specialized care for headaches, poor posture, pelvic pain, and pre-surgical physical therapy to prepare your body for success.
Our Services:
- Back Pain
- Neck Pain
- Hip Pain
- Foot Pain
- Elbow Pain
- Hand Pain
- Balance Disorders
- Chronic Pain
- Vertigo
- Headaches & Migraines
- Neurological Conditions
- Poor Posture
- Post-Surgical Rehabilitation
- TMJ Dysfunction
- Sciatica
- Shoulder Pain
- Knee Pain
- Ankle Pain
- Wrist Pain
- Arthritis
- Gait Disorders
- Dizziness
- Fibromyalgia
- Motor Vehicle Accident Injuries
- Pelvic Pain
- Pre-Surgical Physical Therapy
- Sports Injuries
- Work Injuries
October is National Physical Therapy Month, and at Nestor Physical Therapy, we’re taking a moment to celebrate the power of movement and the people who make progress possible!
Physical therapy is about more than treating an injury or managing pain. It’s about helping you regain confidence, build strength, improve your movement, and get back to the activities that matter most to you. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, working through a chronic condition, or simply looking to move and feel your best, physical therapy can play an important role in your overall health.
We’re proud to work alongside our patients through every step of their journey. Every milestone, from your first pain-free movement to returning to your favorite activity, is worth celebrating.
This National Physical Therapy Month, we’re especially grateful for our patients who trust us with their care. Thank you for allowing our team to be part of your journey!
Thank You’s
High fives all around to all Nestor Physical Therapy patients and friends who participated in our “Refer a Friend” program last month!
Patient Success Spotlights
“Over twenty years ago, I had surgery on my shoulder. Over the past few months, it had gradually tightened up, became painful whenever it rained or turned cold, and started limiting some of my daily activities.
My wife was attending physical therapy for her ankle and noticed a flyer for the shoulder workshop. She encouraged me to sign up, and I’m so glad I did—it was one of the best decisions I’ve made.
Working with Dr Steve, Alyssa, Adriana, and David was a fantastic experience. They were knowledgeable, supportive, and took the time to help me regain my mobility and strength. Thanks to their care and guidance, my shoulder feels like new again. I highly recommend the shoulder workshop to anyone dealing with shoulder pain or limited movement.”
-Peter L.
“Excellent care! I couldn’t use my right hand for anything before PT. Now I can! My pain has decreased and my range of motion has improved. The exercises they taught me to do have helped a great deal. Thanks“
-Diane G.
Show Your Body Some Love This Fall!
Fall is here—don’t let aches and stiffness keep you from enjoying the season!
Whether you’re taking in the autumn colors, cheering on your favorite team, tackling yard work, or staying active with family, Nestor Physical Therapy is here to help you move with confidence, reduce pain, and make the most of every crisp fall day.
