Sleep is an essential function for survival, and when we don’t get enough sleep, our body reacts poorly. Pain is one response to poor sleep… Our central nervous system becomes sensitised as a protective mechanism after lack of sleep, which makes us more susceptible to aches and pain, and turns the volume or intensity up on previously painful areas.
Most adults need between 7.5-8.5 hours of sleep each night, although this figure can vary between individuals. Ask yourself:
*Do I feel fatigued getting out of bed, and lethargic at all throughout the day?
*Do I always need an alarm clock to get me out of bed?
*Do I rely on caffeine to get me through the day?
If the answer to any of those questions is yes, then you are probably not getting enough sleep.
Improving sleep can go a long way to improving pain, so try to put some of these strategies in place to be better rested:
*Get in a routine of going to be at the same time every day.
*Practice mindfulness or relaxation strategies at night.
*Ensure your bedroom is quiet and dark with no sources of light.
*Read a book rather than watch TV prior to sleeping.
*Avoid caffeine late in the day.
Chris Bryceson
B. Health Sciences (Physio), APAM
CB Physiotherapy