Weakening of the Muscles
Cortisol is a steroid hormone that functions as a stress hormone. It plays an essential role in maintaining homeostasis in the body. Previous research has established a connection between cortisol levels and body mass and composition. Cortisol is a neuroendocrine hormone that can mediate stress responses in effector organs and tissues, including the brain, cardiovascular system, immune system, fatty tissue, and muscle tissue. Even when the cortisol concentration was adjusted to account for environmental factors, there was still a positive correlation between cortisol levels and muscle mass. At the same time, there was a negative correlation between cortisol levels and fat mass.
The muscles get tight when there is much stress on the body. Tension in the muscles is almost an automatic stress reaction; it is the body’s way of protecting itself from being hurt or injured. In response to a stress response that begins abruptly, muscle contractions follow, followed by relaxation once the stress has passed. However, because of chronic stress, the muscles are always kept in a relatively alert state. When muscles tense for extended periods, this can lead to other bodily responses and even stress-related disorders in some people.
