The way we think and feel can have an impact on pain. The following sections explain more about the relationship between thoughts, emotions and pain and gives simple advice to help manage thoughts and feelings at work.

Difficult thoughts and feelings are an understandable and normal reaction to pain. 

Your body reacts to the way you think, act and feel, and low mood and anxiety can make the pain system more sensitive. They can make pain worse or make it harder to cope with the pain you have. 

The following section briefly explains the relationship between pain and an individual’s thoughts, feelings, beliefs and emotions, as well as some practical advice on how you can help yourself. 

The biopsychosocial model of health, illustrated below, is a holistic approach to managing health. The model acknowledges that mind and body interact and can play equal parts in influencing health, both positively and negatively. 

Stress is an example of a biopsychosocial condition, and as such can impact on both your physical and mental health. 

MSK biopsychosocial image

Tips for dealing with thoughts and feelings

People who find ways to manage their thoughts and feelings often feel more confident in managing their pain, feel less down and find that their pain gets in the way of life less. 

Here are some ideas for dealing with your thoughts and feelings.

  • Make time to do things you enjoy - Often people prioritise things they think should be done. This can lead to giving up things they do for pleasure. Allowing time for things that help you feel good is really important. 
  • Talk to people you are close to - Good support from family and friends is very important.
  • Reconnect with people - If your friendships have dwindled, consider joining a group or taking a course to meet people.  
  • Get informed - Make a list of your questions and worries and discuss them with your GP, physiotherapist or other healthcare professional. Sometimes having information can help reduce worries.
  • Be kind to yourself - Step back and think what you might say to a good friend or family member in your situation. Make a note of those responses to remind yourself when you are struggling. 
  • Get active - Exercise can help boost your mood. Choose something you enjoy.  
  • Step back from your thoughts - Mindfulness has been shown to help in dealing with difficult thoughts.

The emotional impact of musculoskeletal conditions at work

Having muscle and joint pain in work, especially if it is having an impact on your ability to work or you have had to take time off, can be stressful and upsetting. 

The cycle below demonstrates how pain and emotions can be linked. 

MSK stress cycle diagram

Managing thoughts and feelings at work

At work, it is important to have early and open conversations with your employer about any problems you are experiencing in work as a result of your condition. 

Promoting better conversations inside and outside the workplace ensures a proactive approach to managing your symptoms and helping you stay in work or return to work effectively.

Feeling stressed and/or anxious can cause you to think things are worse than they are and worry unnecessarily. By talking to your friends, family, colleagues or manager you may find that your worries and concerns are reduced. 

Whatever the cause, if negative feelings don't go away, are too much for you to cope with, or are stopping you from carrying on with your normal life, you may need to make some changes and get some extra support.

If you're still feeling down after a couple of weeks, talk to your GP. Your GP can discuss your symptoms with you. 

Disclaimer: The content on this page is provided for general information purposes only and is not meant to replace a physiotherapy or medical consultation.

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