5 Physical Symptoms of PTSD: Beyond Mental Health

5 Common Physical Manifestations of PTSD

Content warning: The following article discusses physical symptoms of PTSD and may mention trauma-related topics that could be triggering. If you’re experiencing a crisis, please contact appropriate emergency services in your area.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects multiple dimensions of an individual’s wellbeing beyond just mental and emotional health. Many people don’t realize that PTSD can manifest physically, causing real bodily symptoms that can compound psychological distress. These physical manifestations can lead to chronic pain, exhaustion, and illness, potentially intensifying the mental symptoms of the disorder. In this article, we’ll explore five common physical symptoms of PTSD, their impact, and available treatment approaches through telehealth therapy.

Understanding Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing traumatic events. While often associated with military combat experiences, PTSD can affect anyone who has endured trauma such as serious accidents, natural disasters, physical assault, or other forms of violence.

PTSD typically presents with four main categories of symptoms:

• Re-experiencing the traumatic event (flashbacks, nightmares)
• Avoidance behaviors (steering clear of people, places, or situations that remind one of the trauma)
• Negative changes in thoughts and mood (memory problems, distorted thinking)
• Hyperarousal and reactivity (tension, difficulty sleeping)

The hyperarousal/reactivity symptoms often contribute most significantly to physical manifestations, though other symptom categories can also play a role in how PTSD affects the body.

Who Faces Higher Risk for PTSD?

While most people who experience trauma will recover naturally without developing PTSD, approximately 8% of individuals will develop this disorder during their lifetime according to research from the US Department of Veterans Affairs.

Studies indicate that women experience PTSD at higher rates than men, potentially because they face higher rates of certain types of trauma, particularly sexual assault. Military personnel deployed to combat zones also show elevated rates compared to civilians. It’s important to note that PTSD can affect both adults and children.

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, contact the Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Support is available 24/7.

Several factors may influence susceptibility to PTSD, including genetic predisposition, strength of support networks, age, and history of previous mental health conditions.

5 Common Physical Symptoms of PTSD

The connection between our mental and physical health is bidirectional—physical symptoms can intensify emotional distress, and psychological symptoms can manifest physically. Here are five common physical manifestations of PTSD:

1. Hyperarousal and Physical Tension

Hyperarousal represents both a category of symptoms and a symptom itself. It involves heightened sensitivity to environmental stimuli and persistent vigilance, producing physiological effects like elevated heart rate, jumpiness, and muscle tension.

Unlike other PTSD symptoms that might be triggered specifically by trauma reminders, hyperarousal often persists even in neutral situations. This constant state of alertness can be physically exhausting, as the body remains in “fight or flight” mode for extended periods. Many clients describe feeling perpetually “on edge,” which taxes the body’s resources and can lead to physical exhaustion.

2. Chronic Pain and Body Aches

Research has established a strong link between chronic pain and past trauma, with approximately 25% of people living with chronic pain also experiencing PTSD. Studies show that individuals dealing with both PTSD and chronic pain typically report higher pain intensity and greater pain-related disability compared to those with chronic pain but no history of trauma.

Several factors may explain this connection. In some cases, PTSD and pain stem from the same traumatic event. For example, first responders might experience physical injuries and psychological trauma simultaneously. Additionally, PTSD symptoms can make self-care practices like regular exercise more challenging, potentially contributing to physical discomfort. The persistent muscle tension associated with anxiety and hypervigilance can also lead to chronic body aches.

3. Digestive Disturbances

Gastrointestinal issues frequently co-occur with PTSD. Research examining veterans with PTSD found that 36% experienced stomach discomfort, while 25% specifically reported symptoms consistent with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), including diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and abdominal cramping.

The gut-brain connection helps explain this relationship. The nervousness and tension characteristic of PTSD can elevate cortisol levels, which directly affects digestive function. Additionally, some individuals with PTSD may turn to maladaptive coping mechanisms like smoking or alcohol consumption, which can further exacerbate gastrointestinal problems.

4. Headaches and Migraines

Evidence suggests a significant connection between PTSD and headaches, particularly migraines. Some researchers propose that headaches and PTSD share “common genes and pathways” in the brain, suggesting overlapping neurobiological vulnerabilities.

Migraines typically present as intense throbbing pain (usually concentrated on one side of the head), often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and/or heightened sensitivity to light. The chronic stress associated with PTSD can trigger or worsen headache patterns, creating another source of physical discomfort for trauma survivors.

5. Sleep Disturbances

Sleep problems are extremely common among those with PTSD and can manifest in multiple ways. Hyperarousal makes it difficult to relax enough to fall asleep, as the body remains in a vigilant state. Additionally, many people with PTSD experience trauma-related nightmares that disrupt sleep.

The relationship between sleep disturbances and PTSD becomes cyclical—the fear of experiencing nightmares can create anxiety around bedtime, making it harder to fall asleep. Meanwhile, sleep deprivation can worsen other PTSD symptoms, including the physical manifestations discussed above.

Additional PTSD Symptoms

While this article focuses on physical symptoms, PTSD also encompasses numerous cognitive and emotional effects that can indirectly impact physical wellbeing:

• Flashbacks and intrusive memories
• Concentration difficulties
• Memory problems related to the traumatic event
• Irritability and anger outbursts
• Persistent fear and anxiety
• Emotional numbness or detachment from loved ones
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Suicidal ideation

When left untreated, PTSD can significantly disrupt daily functioning and potentially lead to additional mental health challenges, substance use issues, relationship difficulties, and occupational problems.

Telehealth Approaches to PTSD Treatment

PTSD is treatable, and many individuals who receive appropriate care experience significant symptom reduction and improved quality of life. ReachLink’s licensed clinical social workers specialize in evidence-based therapeutic approaches for trauma recovery delivered through secure video sessions.

Telehealth therapy offers several advantages for PTSD treatment:

• Accessing care from the comfort and safety of your own environment
• Eliminating travel barriers, which can be particularly beneficial for those with physical pain or mobility limitations
• Flexible scheduling options to accommodate various lifestyles
• Continuity of care regardless of location changes

Many clients report feeling more comfortable opening up in a private and familiar setting, which can enhance the therapeutic relationship and improve outcomes. Telehealth therapy incorporates trauma-informed care principles, ensuring that each session is conducted with safety, respect, and sensitivity to individual needs.

If you or a loved one is struggling with PTSD, recognizing the physical symptoms is an important step toward comprehensive treatment. Addressing these manifestations alongside psychological symptoms can lead to a more holistic recovery, reducing distress and improving overall functioning.

Remember, recovery is possible with the right support and treatment approach. Seeking professional help early can prevent symptoms from worsening and empower individuals to regain control over their lives. ReachLink is here to guide you through your healing journey with compassionate, accessible telehealth care tailored to your unique experience.