One of the main foundations for maintaining optimal health and wellbeing is sleeping soundly through the night; however, there are many people in the United States that have difficulty doing just that. From not being able to fall asleep easily, feeling sore and tired when waking up due to discomfort, or having a sore neck or headaches, there are plenty of problems related to not getting enough quality sleep that can negatively impact different aspects of your life.
This is something that you should probably know about, but sleep problems and difficulties can sometimes be caused by issues with your spine, including spinal misalignment, tension, or chronic pain among other factors.
Chiropractic Care and Sleeping
During the time spent sleeping, the body performs various functions including repairing tissues, restoring energy levels, hormonal balance, and mental functions. Poor sleep over time will impact all areas of wellbeing and include:
Energy levels
Functioning of immune system
- Mental wellbeing and ability to cope with stress
- Healing of tissues
- Ability to concentrate
- Pain perception
As reported by the CDC, many adults in the United States suffer from insufficient sleep regularly. While this can often be attributed to stress and poor lifestyle habits, physical discomfort and other problems cannot be overlooked either.
Functions of the Spine and Sleep
Because the spine controls body mechanics and coordination of the nervous system, if the spinal functions are impaired, one may suffer from such issues like:
- Neck and/or back pain
- Muscle tension
- Headache
- Reduced mobility
- Inability to sleep comfortably
Any form of pain will lead to disturbance in the cycle of sleep during the night, making it difficult for one to sleep deeply.
Sleeping Disorders Caused by Strained Spine
1. Neck Stiffness and Pain
Bad sleeping posture and issues with the cervical spine will give stiffness in the neck region and shoulders making you feel stiff or develop headaches when sleeping.
2. Back Pain
Pain that is caused by straining of the lumbar spine will be a problem for sleeping comfortably, especially for side and back sleepers.
3. Muscle Tightness
Stiffness in the muscles will give pressure on the spine, making you experience problems while relaxing at night.
4. Stress and Tension
Physical strain in the body makes it always alert; hence, it becomes difficult to relax and sleep.
Linking Chiropractic Treatments with Sleep Improvement
The aim of a person going for chiropractic treatment is the functionality and mobility of the spine. It must be noted that there is no cure for sleeping problems provided by chiropractic treatments. Nevertheless, most people seeking chiropractic help find themselves feeling relaxed.
Advantages of Chiropractic Treatments to Sleep Wellness
Aligns the Spine Correctly
Spinal manipulation can help relax and increase joint mobility. In consequence, this helps relieve pain experienced while sleeping.
Muscle Relaxation
Using chiropractic therapy, muscle tightness can be alleviated, ensuring balance within the body.
Posture Adjustment
In our current times, we engage ourselves in activities like bending, sitting, and using our mobile phones, which put additional weight on the spine; nevertheless, with the help of chiropractic and posture adjustments, some strain on the spine can be relieved.
Increased Relaxation
Thanks to increased flexibility of the body, stress and pain are eliminated, making sleeping easy.
Working of the Central Nervous System
The central nervous system works via the spine and is responsible for controlling different functions in our body.
Warning Signs That Your Spine Might Be Influencing Your Sleep
You could consider a spine examination if you regularly suffer from any of the following problems:
- Waking up with pain in your neck or back
- Tossing and turning during the night
- Morning stiffness
- Frequent headaches due to tension
- Pain in your shoulders
- Unable to get comfortable in bed
- Interrupted sleep due to discomfort
Tips for Healthy Sleep to Preserve Your Spine
In addition to chiropractic services, a person can follow healthy sleep habits which can prove to be quite beneficial.
1. Adjust Sleep Position
Proper sleep position like sleeping on your back and side might relieve pressure on the spine.
2. Find the Correct Pillow
The pillow should provide support to ensure the alignment of the neck with the spine.
3. Cut Down Screen Time
Too much time in front of screens may contribute to increased neck strain and hinder relaxation.
4. Practice Mobility Exercises
Such exercises could assist in relieving tension accumulated during the day.
5. Establish Good Posture Habits
Good posture practices and ergonomic environment will help avoid excessive pressure on the spine.
Chiropractic Services as a Component of Wellness Program
While most patients seek chiropractic services to solve back problems, a person may include this service as a component of a wellness program aimed at achieving better mobility, posture, less stress, and improved overall physical well-being.
When the body is relaxed, a person is more likely to enjoy good sleep.
Conclusion
Sleep quality and spinal health are far more closely related than you might think. Factors such as neck strain, bad posture, muscle tension, and spinal pain could be keeping you from getting sufficient rest.
Chiropractic treatment could play a role in promoting better sleep by optimizing spinal alignment and relieving muscle tension and spinal pressure. It should not replace good sleeping habits and proper ergonomics, but it can certainly complement them.
If lack of sleep is making you feel exhausted during the day, assessing your spinal health could be an excellent way forward.