Is Your Arthritis Rooted in Trauma?

The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis

is a complex body system that allows us to adapt to stress by releasing cortisol, our stress response hormone. The ideal flow for the HPA axis is to release cortisol for a short period of time and then as the stressor is resolved or removed, return the cortisol to cortisone (think savings account). Cortisol increases inflammation in the body, but it is supposed to be short-lived. However, for those who have adrenaline coursing through their bodies due to consistent real or perceived stress, the inflammation level continues to grow Over the last couple of years in my work with first responders, active and retired military, and trauma survivors, I have noticed increased joint pain and inflammation in addition to the common digestive and neurological complaints.

Arthritis

is caused by chronic inflammation that typically originates in the digestive tract, where the bulk of the immune system is located. Typically, arthritis presents as painful joints and can cause swelling, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. There are times when physical trauma can initiate the cascade that leads to the development of arthritis. Post-Traumatic Arthritis is not new but has not been explored concerning emotional PTSD.

Many individuals who have experienced traumatic experiences store the emotions in their physical bodies, never releasing the emotions and eventually developing physical complaints. The book The Body Keeps the Score by Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, MD is an excellent presentation of how emotional trauma and stored emotions can lead to physical symptoms. Dr. Champion also explored this idea in her book Journey to Wholeness: A Woman’s Guide to Mental, Physical, and Emotional Transformation. Anything from joint pain to hormone imbalances, cardiovascular disease, and even cancer may originate from those negative thoughts and emotions, limiting beliefs, and unrelenting grief, which has the potential to change our physiology and not always for the best.

While the relationship between the HPA axis and Post-Traumatic Arthritis is complex and still being explored, there are several ways that individuals can promote HPA axis health and potentially reduce their risk of developing arthritis.

Ways to Reduce Your Risk

Transforming stress

Since chronic stress can lead to dysregulation of the HPA axis, it is essential to find ways to manage stress levels. This may involve relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, HeartMath, hypnosis, guided imagery, and meditation, or yoga. (For those who deal with depression, avoid using meditation as it can worsen symptoms.)

Exercise

Regular exercise has been shown to impact the HPA axis positively and may help reduce inflammation and promote joint health. Start low and slow like a crockpot if you are new to an exercise regimen. Build up endurance and stamina slowly over time.

Nutrition

A healthy diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods such as fruits, vegetables, carbohydrate-timing, and omega-3 fatty acids may help support HPA axis health and reduce the risk of developing arthritis.

The HPA axis stress-response system

is complex and plays a key role in PTSD recovery and emotional resilience (amongst other roles in the body). Chronic activation of this system through PTSD and hypervigilance may contribute to developing Post-Traumatic Arthritis through its effects on inflammation and immune function. By transforming stress levels, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet, individuals can promote HPA axis health and potentially reduce their risk of developing arthritis.