Chronic pain can affect a person in many ways, including at night when trying to sleep. Being in pain that prevents restful sleep can become a continuous exhausting cycle. Worrying about getting to sleep, staying asleep and being unable to relax, can make it very difficult for someone with chronic pain.
In this article, we’ll explore tips and lifestyle changes you can make to help get a better night’s sleep. As experts in profiling beds, we understand the importance of sleep. We’ve helped thousands of people looking to regain their comfort, if you’d like to see how we can help get in touch with us today.
5 Ways to Get a Better Night’s Sleep with Chronic Pain
Studies show that chronic pain can worsen during the night, around 11 pm-12 pm when pain management peaks. Living with conditions such as arthritis can make even a slight bit of movement cause aches and discomfort that can wake you up.
However, there are several ways to help achieve a well-rested sleep if you suffer from chronic pain. From monitoring your screen time to bedroom temperatures, let’s explore how you can help manage your pain.
Have a Sleep Schedule That You Stick To
Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule is vital for improving sleep quality, especially for those with chronic pain. Regular sleep patterns help regulate the body’s internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up naturally. This consistency can reduce the stress and discomfort associated with irregular sleep, thereby alleviating some pain symptoms. Moreover, a stable sleep routine can enhance the effectiveness of pain management strategies, as well-rested individuals are better equipped to cope with pain. Prioritising a sleep schedule fosters a healthier sleep environment, ultimately contributing to overall well-being and pain relief.
Avoid ‘Clock Watching’
Constantly checking the time can increase anxiety and stress, making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. This heightened stress response can exacerbate pain, creating a vicious cycle of discomfort and restlessness. Instead, focusing on relaxation techniques and creating a calm bedtime routine can promote a more restful sleep environment. By eliminating the pressure to fall asleep quickly, individuals can reduce anxiety, improve sleep quality, and better manage their chronic pain, leading to a more restorative night's rest.
Replace Your Mattress
Your mattress should properly support your body, head and neck. Sleeping on a mattress that doesn’t provide adequate support can create aches, discomfort and worsen symptoms of chronic pain. If you experience lower back pain, swelling or arthritis, sleeping on the right type of mattress can offer significant relief and help achieve a better night’s sleep.
Why not contact our team today and see how we can help find the right solution? Start your journey to regaining your comfort with a no-obligation consultation.
Have a Cool Bedroom Temperature
Maintaining a cool bedroom temperature is essential for individuals with chronic pain to achieve better sleep. A cooler environment helps lower the body’s core temperature, facilitating the natural sleep cycle and making it easier to fall and stay asleep. Overheating can cause discomfort, intensifying pain and disrupting rest. A cool room promotes deeper, more restorative sleep, which is crucial for pain management and overall well-being. Additionally, using breathable bedding and pyjamas can enhance comfort and support an optimal sleep temperature. Prioritising a cool sleeping environment can significantly improve sleep quality and help manage chronic pain more effectively.
Exercising
Exercise is beneficial for improving sleep in individuals with chronic pain, including those with limited mobility or severe symptoms. Engaging in light exercises such as stretching, yoga, or gentle bed exercises can help alleviate pain and reduce stiffness. These activities promote relaxation and increase endorphin levels, enhancing mood and easing pain. Incorporating short, regular sessions of walking or water-based exercises can also improve sleep quality. Even simple movements like leg lifts or arm circles in bed can make a difference, contributing to better rest and overall pain management.
Help if You Are Still Struggling to Sleep with Chronic Pain
If you or a loved one are continuing to struggle with sleep, it’s important to explore further options.
Upgrading to an Adjustable or Profiling Bed
Investing in a new bed, such as an adjustable or profiling bed, can make a significant difference. These beds allow individuals to find a comfortable sleeping position, reducing pressure on painful areas and improving overall comfort. Additionally, adjustable beds can enhance circulation and provide better support, facilitating a more restful sleep.
If you’re unsure which bed is right for you, our team are on hand to help. Contact us today and find the right bed for your needs.
Speak with a Sleep Specialist
Consulting with a sleep specialist is another valuable step. Specialists can offer tailored advice, conduct sleep studies, and recommend therapies to address specific sleep issues related to chronic pain. Moreover, speaking with a GP can provide insights into potential underlying conditions exacerbating sleep problems. A GP might suggest medication adjustments, physical therapy, or other interventions to manage pain more effectively. Combining these approaches can create a comprehensive strategy, leading to better sleep quality and improved management of chronic pain.
Start Your Journey to Better Sleep with Opera Beds
With over 20 years of experience within the adjustable bed sector, our talented team find the perfect solution to cater to different needs and circumstances, including those with chronic pain.
Everyone deserves a great night’s sleep, and our dedicated advisors are here to help provide just that through a consultation. They’ll get to know you before making their recommendations, all without the pressure of feeling the need to purchase straight away.
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