What is the difference between acute and chronic stress? Acute stress is the body's short-term response to an immediate challenge, while chronic stress can persist and affect sleep, energy, muscle tension, and pain. Learn how stress affects the nervous system, why chronic stress may contribute to neck and shoulder pain, and how acupuncture may fit into an individualized approach to managing stress-related physical symptoms.

Anxiety is more than an emotional response—it affects the brain, nervous system, hormones, muscles, digestion, and sleep. This article explains anxiety through both Western medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), explores why it develops, and discusses evidence-informed lifestyle strategies and acupuncture as part of a comprehensive approach to managing stress and supporting overall well-being.