It’s been a long week, deadlines are piling up, and your back, neck or shoulders seem to ache more than usual. You’re not imagining it. Stress and pain are closely linked, and understanding how can help you turn the volume down.

Stress turns up the volume

When you’re stressed, your body gets ready for action. Muscles tense and your nervous system becomes more alert. This can make your body more sensitive, so pain feels louder.

Stress and pain also share some of the same pathways in the brain. When you’re under pressure, your brain may be quicker to notice and focus on pain signals.

Spotting the signs

Noticing when stress is building can help. You might find your shoulders creeping up, your jaw clenching, or your breathing getting faster. These signs can come before pain gets louder.

Short resets during the day

Short breaks to move or breathe slowly can help your body shift out of alert mode. Even a minute or two can make a difference. Your goal videos and the 30-second VIDA videos are handy for this.

What you can and can’t control

Some stress at work can’t be avoided. Focusing on what you can control, like taking breaks, asking for help or saying no to extra work when you can, may help ease the load.

Noticing your patterns

Your VIDA pain check-in can help you see whether pain gets louder on busier or more stressful days.

Something to try this week

At the end of each workday, use your VIDA pain check-in and notice whether stressful days and louder pain go together.

What to take away

• Remember stress can make pain feel louder.
• Notice early signs of stress in your body.
• Take short resets during the day.
• Use your VIDA pain check-in to spot patterns.

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