The average person spends a third of their lives either asleep or attempting to sleep†. Therefore, getting a good night’s rest is not only about feeling rejuvenated, but also one of the most important ways to support your spinal health.
That is why our team at Wolverhampton Chiropractic have put together some helpful information to explain why sleep matters, how to create the ideal sleep environment and how chiropractic care can help you get the rest you deserve.
Why sleep matters for your spine
Our bodies work hard whilst we sleep. Our muscles relax, joints decompress and brains consolidate memories from the day. Poor quality sleep or an insufficient amount of sleep can lead to a range of symptoms including:
- back pain;
- mood swings or difficulty concentrating;
- weight gain and hormonal imbalances;
- weakened immune system; and
- slower healing and repair.
If we sleep in an uncomfortable position without sufficient support, then we can often feel stiff, sore and fatigued when we wake up. Poor habits can lead to worsening issues over time and the exasperation of any underlying back conditions that we also experience.
Choosing the right sleep environment
Your bedroom can influence how well you sleep. Therefore, creating an optimal sleep environment will make a world of difference to not only the quality of your sleep, but to how fast you fall asleep too.
Sleeping positions
Many patients ask what the ideal sleep position is. But the truth is, there is no ‘right’ sleep position – It is totally individual to each person. However, if you find that you are not getting enough sleep or waking up not feeling refreshed and mobile, then it may be time to consider making some small changes to how you sleep.
For example, a pillow that supports your head and neck effectively can help to provide support whilst reducing neck, shoulder and back pain and ensuring that they are in line with the rest of your spine.
Another option that side sleepers will benefit from, is adopting a knee pillow to sleep. This helps to alleviate the pressure on your spine and ensure the hips are balanced.
Mattress
A mattress is one of the most vital investments that you can make for your sleep. It supports your spine and body all night, reduces pressure on your joints and helps to regulate body temperature. Therefore, it is important to find a mattress with the right support that suits you. Choose a mattress with the right firmness, which takes your body weight, sleep position and general body sleep temperature into account. A quick google search will display websites offering quizzes to determine personal mattress recommendations and your local Dreams store can even offer a Sleepmatch test based on 3D fit technology. Just remember, a mattress lasts around 7 years and any signs of sagging or lumps will indicate that it is time for an upgrade.
Setting the scene
It is also important to set the scene for your sleep. Keep your bedroom dark, quiet and at a comfortable temperature. Try to avoid screen time an hour before you sleep and perhaps use this time to read a book instead. You can also do some deep breathing exercises and some gentle stretching to unwind and prepare your body ready for sleep.
How can Chiropractic care help you get a good night’s sleep?
Chiropractic care can provide a multi-disciplinary approach to help to improve sleep posture, reduce pain and increase the quality of your sleep by combining a range of modalities and personalising your plan of care. Modifying lifestyle influences, increasing strength and flexibility, along with reducing stress factors can help to enhance your overall health and well-being to promote a good night’s sleep.
When your body experiences the benefits of chiropractic treatment, your body will function at its best with your joints moving more freely and your muscles feeling more relaxed. This creates the optimal conditions for your body to rest properly, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable, well-supported and truly rejuvenated sleep.
Contact Wolverhampton Chiropractic Clinic today on 01902 964917 or learn more about how to schedule your consultation.
† https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21056174/
