Is Stress Causing Pain? The Hidden Link Between Workplace Stress and Injury

Understanding the Mind-Body Connection in Occupational Health

Many people treat mental health and physical health as separate entities. However, research shows they are deeply connected. In the workplace, stress isn’t just an emotional burden; it can lead to chronic pain, muscle tension, and even injury.

As an occupational therapist, I use the biopsychosocial model to assess workplace health. This model explains how biological, psychological, and social factors interact to influence employee well-being.

The Biopsychosocial Model Explained

Let’s break down the biopsychosocial model:

Biological Factors

These include sleep quality, nutrition, exercise, body type, and previous injuries.

Psychological Factors

Mindset, mood, perfectionism, and stress response are all crucial psychological elements.

Social Factors

Income, work environment, family dynamics, and support networks play significant roles in overall well-being.

By understanding how workplace stress affects physical health, employers can take proactive steps to prevent injury and absenteeism.

The Tip of the Iceberg: Is Pain and Injury a Sign of Underlying Stress?

Many employees experience stress-related injuries without realizing the underlying cause. In a high-pressure work environment, stress can lead to:

Increased Workplace Injury Risk

Employees may rush tasks, leading to accidents.

Poor Workplace Ergonomics

Awkward postures, such as slouching or perching on a seat, can exacerbate issues.

Muscle Tension and Fatigue

Repetitive strain and stiffness often result from prolonged stress.

Longer Work Hours & Fewer Breaks

Ignoring early warning signs of discomfort can lead to severe consequences.

The Role of Muscle Tension in Workplace Pain

When the body is under stress, muscles tense up as part of the fight-or-flight response. Over time, this can lead to:

Reduced Blood Flow

Muscles don’t get the recovery time they need, which can cause pain.

Postural Changes

Chronic tension can result in hunched shoulders, stiff hands, or back pain.

A Negative Feedback Loop

Increased tension signals the brain that the body is under threat, which further elevates stress levels.

Without intervention, work-related stress can create long-term health risks, including chronic pain, fatigue, and burnout.

The Fight-or-Flight Response: How Chronic Stress Affects the Body

When employees experience ongoing stress, their sympathetic nervous system (fight-or-flight mode) is activated. Meanwhile, their parasympathetic nervous system (rest-and-digest mode) is suppressed. This imbalance can lead to:

Disrupted Digestion

Increased risk of gut issues and discomfort can occur.

Weakened Immune Function

Higher susceptibility to illness is a common outcome.

Poor Sleep Regulation

Insomnia or fatigue may become prevalent.

The Connection Between Stress and Pain

Since stress and pain are both processed by the nervous system, chronic stress increases pain sensitivity. This makes minor discomfort feel more severe.

Key Takeaways for Managers & Employers

Employers play a crucial role in reducing stress-related injuries. Here’s what to consider:

1. Look Beyond Physical Causes

If an employee reports pain or discomfort, assess both physical factors (ergonomics, posture) and psychosocial factors (workload, stress levels).

2. Recognise Workplace Stress as a Health Risk

Frequent injuries or illness in your team may indicate high stress levels. Address both ergonomic risks and workplace culture issues to create a healthier environment.

3. Prioritise Stress Management & Injury Prevention

High stress contributes to absenteeism, lost productivity, and staff turnover. Talk to employees about their challenges and implement strategies to reduce pressure.

Need Help Improving Workplace Health?

EnableWorks offers career consulting, ergonomic assessments, and injury prevention solutions to support employee well-being.

📩 Contact us today to learn how we can help your team stay healthy and productive.

📞 Call us 033417234 | 0800622599

📧 Email: info@enableworks.co.nz

🌍 Visit: www.enableworks.co.nz

Lois Hill is an Occupational Therapist working for WorkSpace IQ with 11 years of clinical experience. She specializes in vocational rehabilitation and pain management. Lois is passionate about empowering clients to maximize their function, health, and well-being.