Stress Relief in Ellicott City

Managing Stress with Chiropractic Care

Although stress levels have shown some decline in recent years, stress remains a prevalent issue in the United States, exerting a significant toll on health. The sources of stress are diverse and vary from one individual to another, with the most commonly cited stressors encompassing financial concerns, work-related pressures, economic factors, family responsibilities, and health worries.

Stress in Children

An expansive study conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA) revealed that nearly a third of the children surveyed reported experiencing physical symptoms linked to stress in the month preceding the study. These symptoms included difficulties falling asleep, stomachaches, and headaches. Even more concerning, the current youth suicide rate stands at four times the rate observed in the 1950s.

Stress and Overall Health

Stress typically manifests through a range of symptoms, including irritability, anger, overwhelming feelings, anxiety, fatigue, and depression. Stress affects various areas of the body, leading to the following effects:

• Musculoskeletal system: Stress prompts muscle tension and contraction, giving rise to headaches, migraines, and other related conditions.
• Respiratory system: High-stress levels can lead to rapid breathing, or hyperventilation, and may trigger panic attacks.
• Cardiovascular system: Acute stress can elevate heart rate and contribute to inflammation in the coronary arteries, potentially increasing the risk of stroke.
• Endocrine system: Stress triggers the adrenal glands to produce cortisol, heightening the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
• Nervous system: Under stress, the body reacts as if it is under threat, activating a primal response that has persisted for millions of years. When the mind perceives a threat or the body encounters a shock, hormones are released to enhance the ability to either “fight” or “flee.”

While modern humans seldom face the same dangers as our ancestors, this natural response has evolved to encompass reactions to present-day stressors, such as work pressures, deadlines, traffic, illnesses, and arguments.

Combatting Stress with Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care plays a crucial role in maintaining the optimal functioning of the nervous system, comprising the brain and spinal cord. Chiropractic adjustments stimulate the parasympathetic system, which counteracts the “fight or flight” response initiated by the sympathetic system. Research has also demonstrated that chiropractic care can lead to reduced blood pressure.

Stress Relief Ellicott City, Columbia MD | (410) 461-3435