Elbow injuries are common among athletes and physically active individuals. One of the most common elbow injuries is spraining of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL). This injury can cause severe pain, weakness, and limited range of motion in the affected arm. One question that many patients ask is whether elbow UCL sprain hurts more at night. In this blog post, we will explore this topic and provide insights from physiotherapists and chiropractors.
According to physiotherapists, elbow UCL sprains can indeed hurt more at night. During the day, when you are active, your body produces endorphins – natural painkillers that help reduce pain sensations. However, when you sleep, your body’s production of endorphins decreases, making it more difficult to manage pain. Additionally, sleeping positions can put extra pressure on the injured area, exacerbating pain symptoms.
Chiropractors also agree that elbow UCL sprains can be more painful at night. They suggest using a supportive brace or splint during sleep to help stabilize and protect the injured joint. Additionally, chiropractors recommend sleeping in a position that reduces pressure on the elbow joint – such as lying on your back with a pillow under your arm.
To manage nighttime pain associated with elbow UCL sprain, physiotherapists recommend using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium. These medications can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain symptoms. However, it is important to consult with your doctor before taking any medication to ensure that it is safe for you.
In addition to medication and supportive devices like braces or splints, physiotherapy exercises can be helpful in managing elbow UCL sprain pain at night. Physiotherapists can teach you exercises that can help improve range of motion, strengthen muscles around the injured joint, and reduce pain symptoms. These exercises can be done at home and are a great way to complement other treatment options.
Elbow UCL sprains can indeed hurt more at night, but there are several ways to manage nighttime pain associated with this injury. Using supportive devices like braces or splints, sleeping in a position that reduces pressure on the elbow joint, taking NSAIDs, and performing physiotherapy exercises can all be helpful in reducing pain symptoms. If you are experiencing elbow pain at night, consult with your doctor or a physiotherapist for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. With proper treatment and self-care, you can manage your elbow UCL sprain effectively and get back to your active lifestyle.
