Stress is a natural reaction that helps the body adapt to changes and challenges. It can be beneficial in short bursts, keeping you alert and motivated in demanding situations. However, with chronic stress, the stress persists without relief. This leads to physical strain, and symptoms may appear in unexpected places, including your feet.
By reading below, you’ll discover how prolonged stress can impact your foot health and ways to find relief.
How Does Stress Cause Muscle Pain?
Stress triggers muscle tension throughout the body, and the feet are no exception.
Your autonomic nervous system’s built-in stress response, the fight-or-flight response, helps your body face stressful situations. Continued activation of this fight-or-flight response causes wear and tear on your body.
Emotional and mental symptoms of stress include anxiety, depression, and panic attacks.
Physical symptoms of stress include:
- aches and pains,
- an increased heart rate,
- a weakened immune system,
- clenching your jaw,
- dizziness,
- fatigue,
- headaches,
- high blood pressure,
- muscle tension,
- sleeping more or less than usual, and
- stomach or digestive problems.
Possible Foot Conditions
Below are some common foot conditions that may be linked to prolonged stress.
- Plantar Fasciitis: Stress can tighten the muscles and ligaments in the feet, placing added strain on the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. When this tissue becomes inflamed, it is known as plantar fasciitis.
- Tendon Strain: Achilles tendonitis is an overuse injury of the Achilles tendon, a large band of tissue that connects the calf muscles at the lower back of the leg to the heel bone. If you feel a snap, it’s likely a rupture.
- Exacerbation of Nerve Pain: Stress can exacerbate peripheral neuropathy, which is nerve damage that develops when there’s a problem with the peripheral nervous system. This network of nerves sends information from your central nervous system – the brain and spinal cord – to the rest of your body.
Relieving Stress-Related Foot Pain
Incorporating these strategies can help reduce discomfort and promote overall foot health.
- Relaxation Techniques: Practicing yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises eases muscle tension.
- Stretching and Strengthening: Targeted exercises for the feet and ankles keeps the muscles flexible, strong, and healthy.
- Supportive Footwear: Choosing shoes with built-in arch support, cushioned insoles, and a wide toe box reduces strain. Custom orthotics provide additional support.
Speak With an Expert Podiatrist
While stress may solely seem like an emotional issue, its physical effects are real and can cause significant discomfort in your feet. If stress-related foot pain is impacting your life, consult a podiatrist at The Foot & Ankle Center for expert advice and solutions. Since 1989, we have been proud to deliver the highest quality of care to patients in a comfortable and convenient setting.
Learn more about the best path for your podiatric health by requesting an appointment online or calling us at (314) 487-9300!