Improve Sleep, Decrease Pain

Pain affects the way a person sleeps and a lack of sleep can intensify pain. Individuals who suffer from chronic pain may experience sleep disorders. In fact, pain is one of the causes of insomnia. The consistent interruption of sleep triggers a vicious cycle of sleep deprivation and increased pain. The less sleep a person gets, the more intense the pain can become.

Strategies for Improved Sleep

If pain (or any other reason) is affecting the quality of your sleep, start by identifying the cause of the problem. The first step is an assessment of the sleeping environment and lifestyle habits. Here are some questions to answer:

• Is the bedroom a quiet place and are all lights switched off? Is there a television or laptop (and associated glare) in the bedroom?
• What are you sleeping on? How old is the mattress? Does your pillow provide enough support for your neck and head?
• What are you eating and drinking before you go to sleep? Are you consuming caffeinated beverages late in the day? Are you eating big meals close to bedtime?
• Are you sleeping at the same time every day? Are you avoiding stressful conversations or situations before going to bed?

Don’t Lose Sleep Over It

If pain is affecting your sleep patterns, physical therapy can play a big role in the recovery process. Using a combination of hands-on techniques (including joint mobilizations and massage), the therapist will help reduce muscle tension. This will help you sleep better. A therapist will also design a stretching and strengthening program to restore muscle balance and reduce pain; restoring normal sleep patterns.