Do you ever lie awake at night, tossing and turning, trying to fall asleep? Well, you are not alone. Millions of people have trouble falling asleep every day across the United States. A study conducted by Consumer Reports found that 27% percent of people have trouble falling asleep almost every day, while 68% have trouble falling asleep at least once a week. Coupled with back pain, just trying to fall asleep can be a nightmare. Here are a couple of tips for better sleep if you suffer from lower back pain.
Use a Pillow as Support
Back pain is one of the most common ailments people experience. To help alleviate back pain at night, and to feel refreshed in the morning, it is important you sleep in a position that properly supports your neck, back, and hips.
The best way to help you alleviate stress on your back is to use an extra pillow for support when you sleep. If you are like to sleep on your side, try sleeping with a pillow in between your knees. The pillow allows your hips, pelvis, and spine to align properly. If you like to sleep on your stomach, put a pillow under your stomach. The pillow alleviates stress on the neck and straightens the spine. And, if you sleep on your back, make sure you sleep in a reclined position.
Have the Right Mattress
A good mattress should be both comfortable and provide proper back support. However, personal preference is key when deciding on a mattress. There is no universal mattress that works for everybody—some people prefer extra cushion, while others prefer a stiff mattress. Regardless of your preference, it is always important to find a mattress that has back support. You should always know what materials are in your mattress before you make a purchase. People generally use the same mattress for a long time, so if you have lower back pain, it is important to have the proper mattress from the start.
If you are experiencing lower back pain, request an appointment with us. At Commonwealth Spine & Pain Specialists, our professionals are here to help you get relief. We look forward to seeing you!
