Common Causes and How to Get More Restful Sleep
Do you often find yourself tossing and turning at night, unable to get comfortable? What about waking up stiff and sore in the morning? If so, you're not alone. Back pain is one of the most common reasons people have trouble sleeping. Keep reading to learn about some of the most common causes and what you can do to get more restful sleep.
Common Causes of Nighttime Back Pain
Many different things can cause back pain at night. Some of the most common include:
Poor Sleep Posture
If you sleep on your stomach, you may strain your back unnecessarily. Try sleeping on your side or back instead. Placing a pillow under your knees can also help relieve pressure on your spine.
Muscle Spasms
If you have a muscle spasm, it can be very painful and make it difficult to sleep. The best way to relieve the pain is to try some gentle stretching exercises before bed.
Degenerative Disc Disease
Those with degenerative disc disease may experience more pain at night because of their sleeping position. When you lie down, your discs have a chance to heal and repair themselves. But if they degenerate, it can be difficult to get comfortable and may cause pain.
Osteoarthritis
If you have osteoarthritis, you may find the pain worse at night. This is because there's less weight on your joints when lying down, which can increase the pain.
Compressed Nerves
If a nerve in your spine is compressed, it can cause pain that worsens at night. This is because when you lie down, there's more pressure on the nerve.
Tips for Getting Better Sleep with Back Pain
If you're dealing with back pain, there are a few things you can do to get better sleep:
Use a Pillow for Support
If you sleep on your side, place a pillow between your legs. This will help keep your spine aligned and reduce pressure on the joints. If you sleep on your back, put a pillow under your knees. This will again help reduce stress on your joints and spine.
Try a Heating Pad
Applying heat to the painful area can help relax the muscles and ease the pain. Just be sure not to use it too long, as this could cause skin irritation.
Stretch Before Bed
Doing some gentle stretching exercises before bed can help loosen up the muscles and relieve pain.
Try Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
You may want to try over-the-counter pain medication if the pain is severe. Just be sure to follow the directions on the bottle and talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
Quality Care at Regenerative Institute of Newport Beach
If you're dealing with back pain, the team at Regenerative Institute of Newport Beach can help. We offer a variety of treatments, including chiropractic care, physical therapy, and massage therapy. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.