Chronic pain affects millions of people worldwide and can be debilitating affecting their quality of life and daily activities. Many people living with chronic pain feel it constantly and feel an increase in pain levels at night which can lead to a restless and sleep-deprived night. But is there any scientific evidence behind this phenomenon and what can we do to alleviate it? In this blog post, we will explore the link between chronic pain and sleep, the possible reasons behind the increase in pain experienced at night and treatment options.
The relationship between chronic pain and sleep is complex and multifaceted. Pain can interfere with sleep, causing people to wake up frequently or experience difficulty falling asleep. People with chronic pain can feel the pain when resting as well. Conversely poor sleep quality can worsen pain symptoms and lead to a vicious cycle of pain-sleep disturbance. Studies have shown that people who suffer from chronic pain have poorer sleep quality than those without pain, leading to fatigue, mood changes, and reduced quality of life.
One possible reason why chronic pain hurts more at night is because of the body’s natural circadian rhythm. The circadian rhythm is the internal clock that governs our sleep-wake cycles, hormone production, and many other bodily processes. It is thought that pain levels may be higher at night because the body’s physiological processes slow down during this time, leading to reduced pain threshold and increased sensitivity. Additionally, the release of certain hormones, such as cortisol and melatonin, can also affect pain sensitivity levels.
Another possible explanation for increased pain at night is reduced physical activity during the day. People with chronic pain may be less likely to engage in physical activity or exercise, which can lead to muscle stiffness and tension. When the body is inactive for long periods, the muscles and joints become more sensitive to pain, leading to increased pain levels at night. Physiotherapy and chiropractic care are two effective treatment options that can help to break this cycle by promoting movement, reducing muscle tension, and relieving pain.
Physiotherapy is a form of therapy that uses physical exercises, manual techniques, and other treatments to restore function and alleviate pain so you do not have to live with chronic pain for life. A physiotherapist can design an exercise program tailored to the individual’s needs, improve mobility, and relieve pain. Chiropractic care is another treatment option that uses spinal adjustments and manipulations to relieve pain, improve physical function, and restore health. A chiropractor can diagnose and treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, from back pain and headaches to joint problems and sports injuries.
Living with chronic pain can be challenging, particularly when it affects sleep and daily activities. While the exact reasons why chronic pain hurts more at night are not fully understood, scientists suggest that the body’s natural circadian rhythm and reduced physical activity during the day may contribute to increased pain levels. The good news is that there are effective treatment options available, such as physiotherapy and chiropractic care, that can help to alleviate pain, promote movement, and improve sleep quality. If you are experiencing chronic pain and struggling to sleep, seek guidance from a qualified physiotherapist or chiropractor at CARESPACE who can help you devise a personalized treatment plan.
