Stress and anxiety are two of the most common mental health problems that Americans deal with. The stresses of everyday life can have a severe negative impact on your emotional and physical wellness. Fortunately, there are ways to achieve relief through physical therapy. Your physical therapist can work with you to target both the symptoms and underlying causes of your stress or anxiety. Below, learn how this therapy can help alleviate your symptoms. 

The Impact of Stress & Anxiety

When you are feeling stressed or anxious, your body releases the stress hormone, called cortisol. This hormone raises your blood pressure and tenses up your muscles to prepare you to deal with the source of the stress. However, chronic stress can result in blood pressure that’s always too high and muscles that are consistently tense. The muscles become knotted and start to feel sore. This can result in lingering pain, often in the neck, shoulders, or back. The pain and increased blood pressure can also cause difficulty with sleep, the gastrointestinal system, and the reproductive system.

How Physical Therapy Can Help 

A physical therapist takes a multi-pronged approach to treating stress and anxiety. They will discuss your symptoms with you, after which they will create a custom treatment plan for you. They may use massage or stretches during your appointment to release the tension in your muscles. This relaxation will flush out the lactic acid buildup and allow your blood pressure to come down. They can also teach you exercises, stretches, breathing techniques, and other lifestyle changes that will target the cause of your chronic stress and anxiety. This can provide both immediate and long-term benefits for your mental health. 

The licensed physical therapists at Savoy Medical Center provide treatment for stress and anxiety relief. They have four convenient locations across Mamou and Eunice, LA. They have an expansive treatment gym available for your use at their rehabilitation center. Their personalized treatment plan will target both your symptoms and overall wellness. Learn more on their website and call the office at (337) 468-5261 to schedule an appointment.