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Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety conditions and psychosomatic symptoms are serious problems that affect the physical and emotional health of many individuals. Movement and physical therapy are becoming increasingly important treatments for these conditions as they focus on the mind-body connection. People suffering from PTSD or anxiety disorders may experience increased muscle tension, headaches, insomnia and other physical symptoms. These physical manifestations are often the result of constant activity of the sympathetic nervous system and an imbalance with the parasympathetic nervous system.
In this blog we will look at how movement and physical therapy can positively impact PTSD, anxiety and psychosomatic symptoms and how these methods focus on the fundamental mind-body relationship .
Improving physical condition and alleviating psychosomatic symptoms
Regular movement and physiotherapy improve physical condition, which can have a positive effect on psychosomatic manifestations. Improving muscle strength, flexibility, and balance can help alleviate physical symptoms such as pain, tension, and fatigue that are often associated with PTSD and anxiety conditions. This improvement increases self-confidence and a sense of control over one's own body, which can help alleviate psychological symptoms.
Breathing and psychosomatic changes
Breathing is a key factor that changes during psychosomatic changes. When a person experiences stress or anxiety, their breathing often becomes shallower and faster< span style="color: #374151;">. This way of breathing can cause increased activity of the sympathetic nervous system, the part of the autonomic nervous system that is responsible for the "fight or flight" response.
Correct breathing and relaxation techniques are an important aspect of physiotherapy in the treatment of PTSD and anxiety conditions. Learning effective breathing and relaxation techniques can help patients improve their ability to manage stress and anxiety, which can have a direct impact on their psychosomatic manifestations. These techniques also support the mind-body connection and improve overall emotional well-being.
Changes in the central nervous system and the autonomic nervous system
The sympathetic nervous system stimulates the production of adrenaline and noradrenaline, hormones that increase heart rate, blood pressure and blood supply to muscles. This prepares us for a quick reaction in a stressful situation. However, with chronic stress or anxiety, this system is constantly activated, which can have negative consequences for our physical and emotional health.
On the other hand, the parasympathetic nervous system, another part of the autonomic nervous system, is responsible for maintaining body balance and regeneration. With psychosomatic changes, there is an imbalance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, which can cause various physical and psychological manifestations.
Changes in subjective self-perception
As a result of psychosomatic manifestations, our subjective self-perception can also change. For example, a person suffering from chronic stress or anxiety may begin to perceive their body as weak or sick, which can lead to a decrease in self-esteem and life satisfaction. These negative perceptions can worsen psychological conditions and cause other psychosomatic manifestations.
Improving posture and movement patterns
Physiotherapy focuses on correcting posture and movement patterns that may be affected by long-term stress or trauma. Incorrect posture and movement patterns can cause pain, muscle tension and worsen psychosomatic symptoms. By working with a physical therapist to improve these aspects, patients can reduce physical discomfort and improve their mobility, which has a positive effect on their mental health and the connection between body and mind.
Increasing the sense of control and responsibility
Participating in physical therapy and regular exercise can give patients a sense of control and responsibility for their health and treatment. This can increase motivation, self-confidence and sense of self-worth, which are key aspects of recovery from psychological disorders< /em>, such as PTSD or anxiety, and improvements in psychosomatic symptoms.
Understanding the mind-body connection is key to treating psychosomatic symptoms and improving overall health. It is important not only to address the physical symptoms, but also to address the emotional and psychological health of the individual.
Integration of various therapeutic approaches such as physiotherapy, meditation, yoga, psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy can be effective in treating psychosomatic symptoms and helping individuals achieve a balance between body and mind. It is important for individuals to learn to better understand and control their emotional and psychological states in order to improve their physical health and overall well-being.
For those who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety conditions or psychosomatic manifestations, it is important to consult with professionals such as psychologists, physiotherapists and other health professionals about their condition to find out , what kind of treatment is best for them. Physiotherapy and movement activities can be a very useful part of the complex treatment of these conditions.
Ultimately, the key to success in the treatment of psychosomatic manifestations is a comprehensive and individual approach focused on the patient's needs and health goals. Working on changing self-perception and improving self-confidence, as well as improving physical fitness and health, can help individuals achieve long-term relief from psychosomatic symptoms and improve their quality of life. life.
Mgr. Daniela Dvorská
