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Does Back Pain Hurt More at Night?

Does Back Pain Hurt More at Night?
Does Back Pain Hurt More at Night?

Back pain is a common condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is characterized by discomfort, soreness or stiffness in the lower, middle or upper back. Many people have noticed that their back pain seems to worsen at night making it difficult to fall and stay asleep. This has led to the question does back pain hurt more at night? In this blog post, we will explore this question and provide you with some helpful tips to alleviate your nighttime back pain.

One reason why back pain may hurt more when resting or at night is due to poor sleeping posture. When you sleep on your back, your spine is not properly supported, which can lead to more stress on your back muscles and joints. Similarly, sleeping on your stomach or side can also put pressure on your spine, leading to increased pain. To alleviate this, try sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees or on your back with a pillow under your knees to support your lower back.

Another reason why back pain may be worse at night is due to inflammation in the body. Inflammation is a natural response to injury, but it can also cause pain and discomfort. In some cases, inflammation may be worse at night due to changes in your body’s natural rhythms. To reduce inflammation, try incorporating anti-inflammatory foods such as ginger, turmeric, and green leafy vegetables into your diet.

Stress and anxiety can also contribute to nighttime back pain. When you are stressed, your muscles tend to tighten, creating tension in your back. Additionally, when you are anxious, you may clench or grind your teeth, leading to tension headaches and jaw pain. To alleviate stress, try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.

If your back pain is persistent or severe, it may be a good idea to seek professional help from a physiotherapist or chiropractor. A physiotherapist can help you to strengthen your back muscles and improve your posture, while a chiropractor can perform adjustments to your spine to help alleviate pain and stiffness.

In conclusion, back pain can be a frustrating and disruptive condition, particularly when it keeps you up at night. However, there are several ways to alleviate nighttime back pain, including proper sleeping posture, incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your diet, reducing stress through relaxation techniques, and seeking professional help from a chiropractor at CARESPACE. By taking a comprehensive approach to managing your back pain, you can improve your quality of life and get the restful sleep you deserve.

About the Author

Dr. Seth Siegfried, HBK, DC is a chiropractor at CARESPACE Uptown Waterloo. He helps clients improve their health through personalized, evidence-based care. If you’re looking for a chiropractor in Waterloo, CARESPACE offers coordinated support designed to help you be your best.