If you’ve recently experienced an AC joint injury you’re likely wondering how long the pain will last and if it will interfere with your sleep. An AC joint sprain can be a painful injury that affects the shoulder joint and can make it difficult to perform simple daily tasks. However one of the primary concerns of those who suffer from the injury is whether the pain will persist throughout the night. In this blog, we’ll explore the causes of an AC joint sprain and whether or not it can cause you pain as you try to catch some z’s.
An AC joint sprain is an injury that affects the joint where your collarbone meets your shoulder blade. This joint is crucial in the shoulder’s proper function as it allows for a wide range of motion. Injuries to this joint typically occur when you fall onto your shoulder or experience a direct blow to the area. Once the joint is sprained it can cause severe pain that is often accompanied by swelling and decreased mobility in the shoulder.
When it comes to sleeping with an AC joint sprain, many people report having trouble sleeping due to the discomfort. The pain can be significant enough to disrupt your sleep and make it challenging to find a comfortable position. This is especially true if you tend to sleep on your side, as the pressure can worsen the pain. However, there are steps you can take to help alleviate the pain, such as propping yourself up with pillows or sleeping on your back.
One common treatment for AC joint sprains is physiotherapy. A physiotherapist will work with you to develop an exercise plan that will help to restore the joint’s proper function and relieve your pain. These exercises will focus on the shoulder joint’s strength and range of motion and should be performed regularly to see improvement. Additionally, physiotherapy can help you learn proper posture and position, which will prevent further injury from occurring.
Another effective treatment option is chiropractic care. A chiropractor can use various techniques to manipulate the joint back into its proper place, causing a decrease in pain and an increase in mobility. They can also recommend specific exercises and stretches that you can do at home to alleviate the pain.
In some cases, medication may be necessary to manage the pain associated with an AC joint sprain. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or aspirin can help reduce inflammation and pain in the joint. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication to avoid potential complications.
In conclusion, an AC joint sprain can cause pain and discomfort, which can make it challenging to sleep at night. However, there are several treatment options available that can help alleviate the pain and restore the joint’s proper function. Physiotherapy and chiropractic care are both effective options that can be used in conjunction with medication to manage the pain associated with an AC joint sprain. With proper care and attention, you can heal from an AC joint sprain and return to your regular activities with minimal pain.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Laura Rashty, BSc, DC, or another Kitchener chiropractor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
