Herniated discs can be extremely painful and debilitating, affecting your daily life in various ways. But have you ever noticed that the pain seems to intensify at night? Many people with herniated discs experience more discomfort when they go to bed, which can make it difficult to get a good night’s sleep. In this blog post, we’ll explore why herniated disc symptoms hurt more at night and what you can do to alleviate the pain.
Increased Pressure on Spine
During the day, our spines are subject to a lot of pressure as we move around and carry out our daily activities. However, when we lie down at night, the pressure on our spine is reduced. This means that any underlying issues such as herniated discs may become more pronounced and cause increased pain.
Reduced Distractions
At night, there are fewer distractions to take your mind off the pain caused by a herniated disc. During the day, you may be busy with work or other tasks that keep your mind occupied and distracted from the pain. However, when you’re lying in bed at night trying to sleep, there are fewer distractions to keep your mind off the discomfort.
Poor Sleeping Positions
The position you sleep in can also contribute to increased pain from a herniated disc. If you sleep on your stomach or in a curled-up position, this can place additional stress on your spine and exacerbate any existing problems like a herniated disc.
Muscle Stiffness
It’s common for muscles around a herniated disc to become stiff due to inflammation or trying to protect the injured area. This stiffness can become more pronounced at night when you’re not moving around as much and may contribute to increased pain levels.
Lack of Movement
Finally, lack of movement during the night can also cause herniated discs to hurt more. When we move around during the day, our spines are able to adjust and stretch out regularly. However, when we lie still for hours on end at night, our spines can become stiff and painful.
So what can you do to alleviate the pain caused by a herniated disc at night? Here are some tips:
- Try sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees to help keep your spine aligned.
- Invest in a supportive mattress that will help distribute your weight evenly.
- Take over-the-counter pain medication as directed by your practitioner.
- Consider seeing a physiotherapist or chiropractor who can provide targeted exercises and treatments to alleviate the pain.
In conclusion, herniated discs can indeed hurt more at night due to various factors such as increased pressure on the spine, reduced distractions, poor sleeping positions, muscle stiffness, and lack of movement. However, there are steps you can take to alleviate the pain and get a better night’s sleep. If you’re struggling with pain from a herniated disc or any other back problems, don’t hesitate to reach out to a physiotherapist or chiropractor for help. With the right treatment plan in place, you can start feeling better and get back to enjoying life without discomfort.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment. Dr. Tyler Baron is a chiropractor in Kitchener.
