Why Managing Stress is Key to Improving Sports Performance and Preventing Low Back Pain
- Julian Simpson
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Why Managing Stress is Key to Improving Sports Performance and Preventing Low Back Pain
Growing evidence suggests that the thoracolumbar fascia (TLF), a crucial connective tissue structure in the lower back, has been a significant contributing factor to the development of low back pain, which is a prevalent issue affecting a large portion of the population. This fascia serves as a vital support system for the lumbar spine and plays a crucial role in the biomechanics of the back, influencing both movement and stability.
In particular, biomechanical properties such as sliding or deformation are reduced in patients with low back pain, indicating that the normal flexibility and adaptability of the thoracolumbar fascia may be compromised. This reduction in sliding and deformation can lead to increased tension and strain on surrounding muscles and ligaments, exacerbating pain and discomfort in individuals suffering from low back pain.
The number of nociceptive fibres in the aponeurotic thoracolumbar fascia increases significantly due to inflammation associated with hypersensitivity of these free nerve endings. This hypersensitivity can result from various factors, including injury, overuse, and chronic stress, leading to a heightened perception of pain. As the inflammation persists, the nociceptive pathways become more active, intensifying the sensation of pain and complicating the clinical picture for those suffering from low back pain.
About 40% of the total thoracolumbar fascia innervation consists of postganglionic sympathetic fibres, which are likely to be vasoconstrictors. This innervation plays a critical role in the body's response to stress, as these sympathetic fibres can potentially increase pain levels under psychological stress. When an individual experiences psychological stress, there is an enhancement of sympathetic activity, which can lead to increased muscle tension and reduced blood flow to the affected areas, thereby exacerbating pain symptoms and creating a cycle that is difficult to break.
A recent study has revealed a possible role of myofascial tissue in the dynamics of depression maintenance. This connection between myofascial tissue and mental health is gaining attention, as it suggests that the physical state of the body can influence emotional and psychological well-being. The interaction between chronic pain and mental health conditions such as depression creates a complex relationship that can perpetuate both issues, leading to a cycle of suffering that is challenging to address.
Research found that individuals with major depressive disorder showed reduced elasticity and increased stiffness of this tissue compared with nondepressed controls. This alteration in myofascial properties may contribute to the physical manifestations of depression, as the body’s inability to move freely can further impact mood and overall quality of life. The stiffness and reduced elasticity of the thoracolumbar fascia may hinder normal movement patterns, leading to discomfort and a decrease in physical activity, which can further exacerbate depressive symptoms.
Research in 2024 looked into heart rates of sporting athletes and the relationship between the thoracolumbar fascia, examining how physical exertion impacts the fascia's condition. The findings indicated that the more exertion experienced from stress, whether physical or psychological, the increased likelihood of fascia tension and subsequent low back pain. This relationship underscores the importance of understanding how both physical activity and stress management are crucial in maintaining the health of the thoracolumbar fascia and preventing pain.
They also found that there is evidence that the peripheral nervous system may reduce peripheral proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-6, interleukin-1ß, and TNF. These cytokines are known to play a significant role in the inflammatory response and are often elevated in conditions associated with chronic pain and inflammation.
By reducing the levels of these proinflammatory cytokines, the peripheral nervous system may help mitigate some of the inflammatory processes that contribute to low back pain, highlighting the intricate connections between the nervous system, immune response, and musculoskeletal health.
For more information about how we can help. Please call Health Wise Chiropractic 03 9467 7889 or book online to see one of our Chiropractors in Sunbury or Melton/Strathtulloh Today!
We are also really proud to offer our patients an APP for their Mobile- iPad. With access to your rehab exercises and our health tip blogs with over 500 articles.
Chiropractic has moved online. We offer our online program -STAND CORRECTED- To help you through the day.
We have over 30 programs on different health conditions
Each program contains
- Information about the conditions
- things to do and things to avoid
- nutrition advice
- all the stretches that are needed to help
Comments