Shropshire physiotherapist warns Covid pandemic effects on mental health are cascading into physical conditions
A leading Shropshire physiotherapist has warned that the effects of Covid-19 on people’s mental wellbeing are in some cases also having an impact on their physical health.
Steve Briggs, lead clinician at SB Sports Injury and Physiotherapy Clinic in Shifnal, says people should not underestimate the link between pain and depression.
“Depression can cause pain and vice versa," said Steve.
“Together, pain and depression can create a vicious circle in which pain increases the symptoms of depression, which in turn worsens the pain.
"Anxiety alone can cause muscles to cramp and referred pain to transmit through the nervous system.
“People who suffer from chronic pain will often have disturbed sleep, leading to fatigue, concentration problems, loss of appetite and mood swings.
"Over time, all these things can be responsible for an increase in sedentary behaviour or inactivity which may result in numerous physical health problems.
“With people having to self-isolate, withdraw from social activity and undertake home working in less-than-ideal workspaces and positions, we have seen a steep rise in physical and mental health linked symptoms.
"We must now educate people in understanding the connection and promote body and movement awareness.
“Alleviating back pain and other physical symptoms that often accompany mental health problems can have a hugely therapeutic impact.
"Physical approaches aimed at relieving physical symptoms can lift a person’s mood, increase their self-confidence, encourage physical activity and generally improve their quality of life.
“As physiotherapists, we can not only help to alleviate the symptoms of pain but also help people to devise a safe and enjoyable exercise programme that will suit their own individual circumstances and lift their spirits."
