The Link Between Stress and Chronic Muscle Pain — What You Can Do About It
How Stress Affects Your Body
We often think of stress as mental or emotional, but your body holds stress too. Chronic muscle pain — especially in the neck, back, and shoulders — is often rooted in an overactive stress response. For those in high-pressure jobs or navigating life changes, stress-related muscle pain is incredibly common.
At Strive Holistic in downtown Edmonton, we help clients reconnect with their bodies and find relief through targeted massage therapy.
Understanding the Stress-Tension Cycle
When we’re stressed, our nervous system shifts into “fight or flight.” This causes:
Muscles to tense up (especially around the neck, jaw, and back)
Breathing to become shallow
Circulation to decrease
Over time, this leads to chronic holding patterns in the body. Massage helps interrupt that cycle.
Massage for Stress-Related Muscle Pain
Massage doesn’t just feel good — it physiologically lowers cortisol (the stress hormone), increases serotonin and dopamine, and activates the parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest).
Techniques we use include:
Relaxation Massage: Full-body work to calm the nervous system and ease tension.
Trigger Point Release: For stubborn pain spots that don’t go away with stretching.
Craniosacral Therapy: Gentle, balancing work that supports emotional release.
Breath-Led Bodywork: Encouraging deeper breathing to support nervous system regulation.
Why Personalized Care Matters
Everyone holds stress differently. Some people clench their jaw. Others hunch their shoulders. Our RMTs take time to understand your stress patterns and tailor your massage to your current state — not just a general routine.
We often combine massage with suggestions for nervous system support outside the clinic, like movement, hydration, or journaling.
Support for Stress & Muscle Pain in Edmonton
If you feel like your body is always tense, your sleep is poor, or pain is creeping in for no obvious reason — it may be stress.
Massage therapy is one of the most effective, natural ways to release that buildup. Our clinic in downtown Edmonton provides a supportive space to unwind and heal.
Book your stress-relief massage today and give your body the reset it deserves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can stress really cause chronic pain?
Yes. Ongoing stress causes muscular tension and inflammation that contributes to long-term pain.
What type of massage is best for stress?
Relaxation massage or craniosacral therapy work well. Your RMT can customize based on your symptoms.
How quickly will I feel better?
Many clients feel better after one session, but ongoing care creates longer-lasting results.
Will massage help my anxiety?
It can help regulate your nervous system, which reduces anxiety and improves overall well-being.
Is massage safe for people with trauma history?
Yes. Strive Holistic uses a trauma-informed approach. You're always in control of your session.
