Back Pain and Sleep

A good night's sleep is essential for our physical and emotional health.
Many studies have shown a poor night's sleep can have a detrimental effect on the quality of our lives whether work or play related.
If your sleep is ruined because you have back pain then the disturbed sleep is likely to affect your ability to recover from your back pain and you will possibly find yourself in a vicious unending circle.

During the day various actions and activities, such as lifting heavy objects, poor sitting posture at work or standing all day, are likely to have caused, or aggravated, already existing tension and stress in your back muscles and the body needs the sleeping or resting time to recover from this stress.

Often a major reason for a bad night's sleep is a poorly or badly supported sleeping position caused by using the wrong sleeping surface which can place additional stress on your back and neck - this is important and easily corrected by getting a good supporting surface to sleep on.

If you sleep on an uneven surface the spine will probably not be supported in its natural neutral alignment which can result in back discomfort and pain on arising.
The neck muscles may also suffer stress and tension if the curve of the lower back gets extended incorrectly.
So, one simple remedy worth looking into is the ideal sleeping position - one that allows the natural curves of the spine to be supported while sleeping.
A firm sleeping surface is usually highly recommended.

So a firm mattress or a bed board should be used when suffering from back pain.
If you prefer to sleep on your side, place a pillow under your head and another between your knees before bending them.
For the most beneficial sleeping posture if you sleep on your stomach, place a pillow under your abdomen and nothing under your head.

Back pain can make it hard to get a good nights sleep.
These simple actions can help minimise your back pain during the night, thus giving your body time to heal your stressed muscles.


AK Smith is a freelance writer and author.
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DISCLAIMER:
This blog is NOT a medical advice service – always consult your doctor for specific advice.
The information in this blog is for informational purposes only and is in no way intended to replace the professional medical care, advice, diagnosis or treatment of your doctor.
If you have symptoms or feel ill please see your doctor.