How Stress, Back Pain, and Toronto Chiropractic Care Interact

April 15, 2025

With back pain incidence affecting about 40% of people with 1 in 10 of those experiencing chronic pain, it’s important to understand causes of Toronto back pain. (1) One side that Yorkville Chiropractic and Wellness Centre does not overlook is stress, emotional and cognitive aspects. We examine the whole ‘you’! That's our flavor of chiropractic care.

STRESS AND ITS PHYSICAL TOLL ON THE BODY

Mental stress doesn’t just affect your mind; it manifests in the body as well. When you’re stressed, your muscles naturally stiffen as part of the fight-or-flight response. If stress grows chronic, this persistent muscle tension can lead to discomfort and, eventually, persistent pain. Studies support this. Research published by Brenner-Fliesser et al. (2) found a prominent correlation between work-related stress and increased incidence of low back pain among office workers, particularly those in sedentary jobs. Too many demands of work and social tensions were recognized as significant contributors to both the severity and length of pain. Repeated or prolonged stress triggers a cascade of physical effects including muscle imbalance, spinal misalignment, inflammation. The message is clear: treating Toronto back pain requires attending to not only the physical symptoms but also the underlying stressors.

B VITAMINS AND STRESS MANAGEMENT

A lesser-known tool in combating stress is making sure there is an adequate intake of B vitamins. These water-soluble vitamins have a vital role in supporting a healthy nervous system and brain function, which is directly tied to stress regulation. Transthyretin, a protein related to vitamin B12, has been shown to "orchestrate stress resilience," according to research by Stein et al. (3). This suggests that proper vitamin B levels can significantly improve how your body copes with stress. Key B vitamins for stress management are Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) which boosts mood by changing carbs into energy, Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) which props up serotonin (the “feel good” hormone) production, and Vitamin B12 which is needed for nerve health and red blood cell production really necessary when stressed. By managing stress, B vitamins indirectly reduce stress-related muscle tension and its poor effects on the spine. Supplementing with B vitamins may also enhance energy levels, making it simpler to stay active, which is critical for Toronto back pain relief.

HOW CHIROPRACTIC CARE PROVIDES COMPREHENSIVE RELIEF: START NOW!

Chiropractic care at Yorkville Chiropractic and Wellness Centre does not just treat the symptom of back pain; it works to figure out the root. Chiropractors adopt a holistic approach to address both spinal health and contributing factors like stress by utilizing gentle spinal manipulation like Cox® Technic, stress reduction and lifestyle advice (like office set up and office chair choice), and nutritional suggestion for diet and supplementation. When it comes to working on stress-related back pain, a multi-faceted approach is a good option. By addressing your mind, body, and nutrition all at the same time, you allow yourself the best opportunity to find sustainable relief. Add B vitamins, do some stress-reducing things like yoga and breathing, and (first!) chat with your chiropractor at Yorkville Chiropractic and Wellness Centre!

CONTACT Yorkville Chiropractic and Wellness Centre

Listen to this PODCAST with Dr. Lee Hazen, on The Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he illustrates how the “whole person” approach to back pain relief and integration of The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management can be of benefit.

Now is the time to take control of your back pain and associated stress and improve your quality of life. Schedule your Toronto chiropractic appointment soon.