does anybody know why we get muscle tension? my arms and back ache, but do you know why?
It's a new symptom for me and I always worry that it's my heart, and it's so hard to just try and not think about it and tell yourself that its anxiety.
Hi Lucy, the symptom of muscle tension is down to the fight or flight response and is purely anxiety. Basically blood flow is sent to the main muscles inc legs, arms, back, chest and gets them ready to fight or run hence they tense up, you may feel your heart beating harder and faster again this is the heart pumping blood to those areas as quickly as possible.
Its nothing serious and cannot possibly do you any harm.
Neil
thank you! i'm also wondering is there any way to stop the aches? if anybody knows
Hi Lucy
I have generalised anxiety disorder and feel as though I am in constant fight or flight mode. My upper back and neck feel constantly tense and Im sure I must have nipped a nerve as I also get aches down my arm and into my finger tips sometimes. I too thought it must be my heart.
Anxiety has a mind of its own and it tricks you into thinking your in danger or are going to die, or there is something physically wrong with you. Even when you think you feel fine you subconscious can make you have physical symptoms of anxiety. If you look up a full list of anxiety symptoms the list is endless! Its unbelieveable how powerful your brain is. It feels to me like your own mind is against you x
To stop the aches you need to stop the tension. Progressive muscle relaxation when you feel you are tense. Start being aware of your body, notice when theres tension and do some progressive muscle relaxation. The less time you spend tensed, the less soreness you will have.