Unexplained physical complaints and what you can do with them

When your body protests, but the cause remains vague

It's more common than you think: you don't feel well, but tests show no physical condition. Yet your symptoms are real. Maybe you suffer from headaches, muscle aches, palpitations or a pressing feeling in your chest. Sometimes it seems like your body is tense or ‘locked’ for no apparent reason.

These complaints can be the result of long-term stress, unresolved grief, trauma or a combination of psychological and physical factors. Your body stores experiences, and when this tension builds up, you may suffer physically.

Common signs without a medical cause

• Chronic pain: e.g. in neck, back or abdomen, without demonstrable abnormality.
• Fatigue: persistent fatigue, even after sufficient sleep.
• Chest tightness or pressure: without anything wrong with heart or lungs.
• Tension in the body: a feeling of restlessness, entrapment or stiffening.

What can body-oriented therapy do?

Body-oriented therapy helps you connect with your body more consciously. Instead of continuing to look for medical explanations, you will work with a therapist to look at what your body is trying to tell you. This is done through conversation, touch, breathing or movement.

Therapy forms such as haptonomy, biodynamic therapy or somatic experiencing can help you release tension and experience more peace. You learn to listen to your body instead of fighting it. This can create space, even if the symptoms do not disappear immediately.

Want to know more about how these therapies work? Then have a look at our page on somatic therapy.

Give your body the attention it deserves

Unexplained physical complaints are real and deserve attention. When your body gives signals, it can be a sign that something is allowed to move. Body-oriented therapy offers a gentle, respectful way to regain confidence in your own body. You are not alone.