Is it possible to sleep with back pain?
Sleep experts say that, yes, it is possible to get a decent night’s sleep even when back pain is present. They suggest:
- Sleep in a different position. People with neck pain may do better sleeping on their back than on their stomachs. People with low back pain may find relief sleeping on their side with a pillow between the knees.
- Invest in sleep. To invest in sleep means to make sure the mattress or pillows being used are supportive of spinal alignment. Some people need a firmer mattress while others need one that is softer. The goal is to find products that provide the greatest amount of comfort.
- Implement healthy bedtime rituals. Bedtime rituals begin hours before one goes to sleep. Some people with chronic pain tend to rely on a nightcap before bed to relax their muscles. Artificial sleep aids such as alcohol or sleeping pills might make matters worse for some. Instead of substances, experts recommend turning the lights down low after dark and avoiding digital devices. This stimulates the body’s natural production of melanin, the sleep chemical.
There are several strategies for sleeping with back or neck pain. They may be helpful but they don’t always work. We suggest getting treatment that can reduce or eliminate back pain altogether. To see how we can help you do that, call our Tampa, FL office at (813) 920-3022.