Stress and muscle fatigue are closely related.
Stress, whether it’s physical or mental, can lead to muscle fatigue, while muscle fatigue can also cause stress on the body.
When you experience stress, your body releases stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones increase your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing rate, preparing your body for a «fight or flight» response. In the short term, this can help you cope with stressors, but if stress becomes chronic, it can have negative effects on your body, including muscle fatigue.
Chronic stress can cause muscle tension and reduce blood flow to muscles, leading to muscle fatigue. Prolonged muscle tension can cause a build-up of lactic acid, which can contribute to muscle soreness and fatigue. Additionally, stress can cause disruptions in sleep patterns, leading to insufficient rest and recovery time for muscles.
On the other hand, muscle fatigue can also contribute to stress. When your muscles are fatigued, they may not perform as well as they normally would, leading to feelings of frustration and stress. This can be particularly true for athletes and individuals who engage in physical activity, as muscle fatigue can affect their performance and lead to further stress and frustration.
Stress and muscle fatigue are intertwined, with stress potentially leading to muscle fatigue and muscle fatigue potentially causing stress. To manage this relationship, it’s important to take steps to reduce stress, such as engaging in relaxation techniques, getting enough rest, and practicing good self-care. Additionally, proper training, rest, and nutrition can help prevent muscle fatigue and improve performance. A good massage can go a long way to lower stress hormones, cortisol and adrenaline. Massages also improve blood flow help move lactic acid out of the muscles.