Muscular rheumatism and stress: What's the link?

Muscular rheumatism, also known as polymyalgia rheumatica, is an inflammatory condition that causes muscle pain and stiffness, primarily in the neck, shoulders and hips. Although the exact cause of muscular rheumatism is unknown, stress can have a significant impact on both the onset and severity of symptoms. This article explores the relationship between muscular rheumatism and stress and how to deal with both. More info...

woman at desk with Muscular Rheumatism and stress

What is muscular rheumatism?

Muscular rheumatism is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system causes inflammation in muscles and surrounding tissues. It usually occurs in people over the age of 50 and can occur suddenly.

Common symptoms of muscular rheumatism are:

  • Muscle pain and stiffness, especially in the morning.
  • Difficulty with daily movements, such as getting up from a chair or lifting the arms.
  • Fatigue, mild fever and weight loss.

Although the condition can be treated with medications such as corticosteroids, external factors such as stress play a role in the severity of symptoms.

How does stress affect muscular rheumatism?

1. Stress as a trigger for inflammation

Chronic stress increases the production of cortisol, which can affect the immune system. This can lead to increased inflammation in the body, exacerbating symptoms of muscular rheumatism.

  • Consequence: Aggravated muscle pain and stiffness.
  • Why?: Stress causes increased inflammatory activity, which can intensify existing symptoms.

2. Increased muscle tension

Stress often causes muscle tension, especially in the neck and shoulders. This overlaps with the areas where muscular rheumatism is common.

  • Consequence: More pain and stiffness even without physical exertion.
  • Why?: Muscle tension caused by stress can mimic or worsen the symptoms of muscular rheumatism.

3. Impact on sleep and recovery

Stress affects sleep quality, which is essential for muscle recovery. Poor sleep can lead to fatigue and increased pain.

  • Consequence: A vicious cycle of stress, poor sleep and aggravated muscular rheumatism.
  • Why?: Lack of rest makes it harder for the body to fight inflammation.

How can you reduce stress in muscular rheumatoid arthritis?

1. Relaxation techniques

Breathing exercises, yoga or meditation can help lower your stress levels.

  • Why it works: These techniques activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and can reduce inflammation.
  • Tip: Try 10-15 minutes of mindfulness exercises daily.

2. Regular exercise

Light exercises such as walking or stretching can reduce muscle tension and improve your overall mood.

  • Why it works: Exercise stimulates blood circulation and the production of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers.
  • Tip: Choose exercises that do not put extra strain on your muscles.

3. Professional massage or massage chairs

A massage can help relax tense muscles and improve circulation.

  • Why it works: Massages lower stress hormones and reduce muscle tension in affected areas.
  • Tip: A MediRelaxa massage chair offers an easy and effective way to relax on a daily basis.

MediRelaxa massage chairs: Support for muscular rheumatism and stress

With a MediRelaxa massage chair, you can reduce both physical and mental tension. These chairs offer:

  • Deep muscle massage: Helps relieve stiffness in the neck, shoulders and hips.
  • Heat function: Promotes circulation and relaxes stiff muscles.
  • Automatic programs: Specially focused on relaxation and stress reduction.

Advantage: You can enjoy a daily massage that reduces both stress and muscle tension, without a therapist appointment.

Conclusion

Stress and muscular rheumatism are closely linked, as stress can both affect symptom severity and delay recovery. By managing stress with relaxation techniques, light exercise and tools such as a MediRelaxa massage chair, you can better control your symptoms and improve your overall well-being. Take time to take care of yourself and discover how stress reduction can significantly improve your life with muscular rheumatoid arthritis.

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MediRelaxa fixes your back pain and mobility while you experience ultimate relaxation at your home or office.
We are based in Westerlo, Belgium and deliver our massage chairs throughout Europe.

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