If you suffer from chronic pain, you should know that your emotions can dramatically affect it.
Dr. Susan Babel, a psychologist that specializes in trauma-induced depression, wrote in Psychology Today:
“Studies have shown that chronic pain might not only be caused by physical injury but also by stress and emotional issues…Physical pain functions to warn a person that there is still emotional work to be done.”
Here is a look at the various types of chronic pain that are linked directly to your emotions, and how you can find relief.
Upper Back
If you’re not feeling appreciated or don’t have a good emotional support system, that can manifest itself as pain in the upper back. If you’re in a relationship and not getting the support you need, you may need to discuss it with your significant other. Cultivating closer relationships with friends, or making new friends, can help too.
Lower Back
Is your lower back the concern? You may be stressing about finances. Do some research to find out how you can manage your money better, and/or look at ways of earning more, such as asking for a raise or making extra money from a favorite hobby on the side.
Shoulders
You know that saying, “You’re carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders?” Shoulder pain is a sign that you’re under a lot of pressure, perhaps taking too much on, or trying to “shoulder everything.” If you’re just trying to do too much, consider sharing the load with a family member or trusted friend.
Hands
While hand pain can be a sign of a medical condition like carpal tunnel syndrome or arthritis, it can also be linked to a lack of social relationships. Make an active effort to meet new people.
Hips
There are a lot of nerve-endings in the hips, so often times, hip pain is related to your emotional state, particularly the fear of a major change like moving or switching careers. To get rid of it, move on – make a decision and stick to it.
Knees
Like the hips, there are a lot of nerve endings in the knees. And while old injuries and arthritis are certainly common causes of knee pain, it can also be caused by being too judgmental, or thinking too highly of yourself.
Experts recommend spending more time volunteering, and realizing that there is no one in this world that is perfect.
Ankles
If you have chronic ankle pain, it could be that you’re taking life too seriously and are in need of more pleasure in your life. Be sure to take some time every day to do something for yourself.
Feet
Did you know that being depressed can lead to foot pain? While beating depression can be challenging, take steps to overcome it by finding more joy in your life – travel to an exciting destination, try a new hobby, start exercising or get a pet…don’t give up, keep trying until you find something that works!
Source: Earthables
