How your hearing affects your body beyond your ears

Hearing loss is often seen as just an issue of sound, but its impact goes far beyond the ears. Research shows a strong link between hearing loss and musculoskeletal pain, including neck, back and joint discomfort. If you have been struggling with both hearing difficulties and body pain, you are not imagining it. Your hearing health and physical wellbeing are deeply connected.

Let’s explore how hearing loss affects musculoskeletal health and, more importantly, what you can do to protect your hearing and reduce pain.

How hearing loss contributes to musculoskeletal pain

Hearing and movement are closely linked. When hearing declines, the body often compensates in ways that can lead to chronic pain.

1. Increased muscle tension

• Straining to hear. When hearing is reduced, you may unconsciously tense your neck, shoulders and upper back to focus more on conversations, leading to stiffness and discomfort.
• Forward head posture. Many people with hearing loss lean forward, tilt their heads or turn one ear toward the speaker. Over time, this can cause misalignment in the spine, leading to chronic neck and back pain.
• Tight muscles and tension headaches. The extra concentration needed for communication can lead to tension buildup in the neck and shoulders, increasing headaches and body aches.
• Cognitive overload. Struggling to hear requires more mental effort, leaving less energy for posture and movement control.

2. Balance and stability issues

• Inner ear function. The inner ear plays a key role in balance. When hearing declines, balance can be affected, increasing the risk of falls and muscle strain.
• Compensatory movements. To stabilise yourself, your body may adjust posture and walking patterns, creating uneven stress on the joints and muscles.

How to protect your hearing and reduce musculoskeletal pain

The good news is that you can take steps to support both your hearing and musculoskeletal health.

1. Improve posture and reduce muscle tension

• Keep your head and neck aligned. Avoid leaning forward when listening. Try to keep your ears aligned with your shoulders.
• Stretch and strengthen. Regularly stretch your neck, shoulders and upper back to relieve tension. Strengthening core muscles also helps support better posture.
• Use assistive devices. If you wear hearing aids, make sure they are properly fitted to reduce the need for straining.

2. Stay active for balance and strength

• Engage in balance exercises. Activities like tai chi, yoga and single-leg standing improve stability and reduce fall risk.
• Walk regularly. Walking helps maintain joint flexibility and encourages good posture.
• Strengthen key muscle groups. Exercises that strengthen the back, shoulders and core can reduce posture-related pain.

3. Reduce cognitive and physical fatigue

• Use hearing aids or amplification devices. Reducing the effort needed to hear can decrease muscle tension and mental fatigue.
• Take listening breaks. Give your brain a rest by stepping away from noisy environments when possible.
• Practise relaxation techniques. Deep breathing, meditation or gentle stretching can relieve stress-related tension in your body.

4. Keep moving to prevent stiffness and pain

• Perform regular neck and shoulder stretches. Stretching can counteract the tightness caused by listening strain.
• Get regular check-ups. If you have persistent pain or hearing difficulties, consult an audiologist and a physical therapist.

Final thoughts: a holistic approach to hearing and musculoskeletal health

Hearing loss does not just affect how well you hear. It influences posture, balance and even your risk of chronic pain. By addressing hearing health and musculoskeletal care together, you can reduce discomfort, improve movement and enhance overall wellbeing.

‍